"The word Chivalry is derived from the French cheval, a horse."
January 8th
Another year, another Gallop Gossip. First of all may I take this opportunity to wish one and all on behalf of myself, Tony Carroll and all the stable staff a happy new year. Sorry this report is a little late but I have been ill with that dreaded bug that everyone seems to have had, Cough, feeling yucky etc. Laid me up for quite a few weeks. We even missed the Stable Christmas Party as we did not want to give the stable boys and girls the bug!
Another year, another Gallop Gossip. First of all may I take this opportunity to wish one and all on behalf of myself, Tony Carroll and all the stable staff a happy new year. Sorry this report is a little late but I have been ill with that dreaded bug that everyone seems to have had, Cough, feeling yucky etc. Laid me up for quite a few weeks. We even missed the Stable Christmas Party as we did not want to give the stable boys and girls the bug!
I went down to the stables on Thursday complete with a large bag of chopped carrots and apple. I must admit it felt good to see and pat and make a fuss of the horses again.
They even remembered me (or perhaps the carrots?) CC let me scratch behind her ear and I still have all my fingers! CC is a horse by the way, not Tich the head lad with another nick name.
The snow has gone. The frost has melted and in its place is lots and lots of sticky mud. The horses don't seem to mind. Though it is a lot of work for the stable staff cleaning and grooming the horses after exercise.
The all weather gallops and training circle are back in full productive use. You can tell by the horses reactions that they are happy to get back into training. Releasing all that pent up power.
The stable has high hopes for the coming year, we will have to wait and see!
They even remembered me (or perhaps the carrots?) CC let me scratch behind her ear and I still have all my fingers! CC is a horse by the way, not Tich the head lad with another nick name.
The snow has gone. The frost has melted and in its place is lots and lots of sticky mud. The horses don't seem to mind. Though it is a lot of work for the stable staff cleaning and grooming the horses after exercise.
The all weather gallops and training circle are back in full productive use. You can tell by the horses reactions that they are happy to get back into training. Releasing all that pent up power.
The stable has high hopes for the coming year, we will have to wait and see!
January 12th
Just a quick update.
I have updated the horses in training. To view the current HIT list please click here.
For future reference there is also a permanent link on the office page to the Horses In Training.
Obviously the carrots and apples were not enough last week. So have decided to upgrade to polo mints when I next visit the stables. As they say watch this space.
I have also made a cosmetic alteration to every webpage. One of those 'I can see he has changed it but not work out what he has done' changes. Can you spot the difference?
Just a quick update.
I have updated the horses in training. To view the current HIT list please click here.
For future reference there is also a permanent link on the office page to the Horses In Training.
Obviously the carrots and apples were not enough last week. So have decided to upgrade to polo mints when I next visit the stables. As they say watch this space.
I have also made a cosmetic alteration to every webpage. One of those 'I can see he has changed it but not work out what he has done' changes. Can you spot the difference?
January 14th
I visited the stables the other day and this time distributed the magic polo mints, the ones with the non fattening centre. But did it do any good?
A winner! Appyjack ridden by Luke Morris on Thursday January 14. Kempton Park 18:50 a App Handicap. £2250 added, 3yo only, 1m, Class 6, £1535 penalty, 11 ran. Going: Standard. Surface: Polytrack. At 20/1, and 25/1 at the track, they obviously were not optimistic about this horses chances. But passing the last furlong marker Luke and Appyjack came down the outside coming from around 5th to winner in the final few yards. A really strong finish. Sporting Life said " in touch, strong run on outside over 1f out, led inside final furlong, won going away opened 25/1 touched 25/1 " To watch the race click here. If you watch the replay the one to look for is running on the outside. A bay with a blaze, jockey red colours and red cap.
I visited the stables the other day and this time distributed the magic polo mints, the ones with the non fattening centre. But did it do any good?
A winner! Appyjack ridden by Luke Morris on Thursday January 14. Kempton Park 18:50 a App Handicap. £2250 added, 3yo only, 1m, Class 6, £1535 penalty, 11 ran. Going: Standard. Surface: Polytrack. At 20/1, and 25/1 at the track, they obviously were not optimistic about this horses chances. But passing the last furlong marker Luke and Appyjack came down the outside coming from around 5th to winner in the final few yards. A really strong finish. Sporting Life said " in touch, strong run on outside over 1f out, led inside final furlong, won going away opened 25/1 touched 25/1 " To watch the race click here. If you watch the replay the one to look for is running on the outside. A bay with a blaze, jockey red colours and red cap.
I went down to the stables again on Friday. This time I took my wellingtons, lots of mud. Lovely and soft for the horse's hoofs. Appyjack was rewarded with a scratch behind the ear from me as he is not really one for treats. Appyjack is a lovely horse who seems to appreciate some human company.
January 20th
Well I went down to the stables again yesterday. One of those winter mornings where you have ice hugging the trees and bushes and laying down a frosty carpet. The horizon is obscured by a slowly drifting fog sliding across the cold ground. I am sure the photo says it all.
Well it is nice to be a regular visitor down the stables again. Five or six new horses in the stables, you can always tell they look at the polo's in my hand as if it where some horrid medicine. But if you lightly place it in their mouth they soon get the taste and another polo mint fan is made.
Well I went down to the stables again yesterday. One of those winter mornings where you have ice hugging the trees and bushes and laying down a frosty carpet. The horizon is obscured by a slowly drifting fog sliding across the cold ground. I am sure the photo says it all.
Well it is nice to be a regular visitor down the stables again. Five or six new horses in the stables, you can always tell they look at the polo's in my hand as if it where some horrid medicine. But if you lightly place it in their mouth they soon get the taste and another polo mint fan is made.
Winners! What a lovely word. Ok over the last two days we have had three winners.
Wednesday January 19, Lingfield Park 15:05. A Claiming Stakes. £2250 added, 4yo plus, 2m, Class 6, £1535 penalty, 5 ran . Going: Standard. Surface: Polytrack. Dansilver ridden by Luke Morris. A small field for this race but that takes nothing away from the effort by horse and rider. Coming around the final bend Luke took Dansilver wide. Approaching the final furlong marker Dansilver changed gear and surged forward. Dansilver had a lovely turn of speed and made a terrific finish. Surging across the line leaving no doubt about who was the best horse there. Well done Dansilver, and Luke Morris of course. To watch the race please click here. (please note this requires a free 'At The Races' account. If you do not have one you can sign in using the email address carrots@stables.com and use the password racehorse)
Next winner. Thursday January 20. Lingfield Park 12:50. A Maiden Stakes. £3000 added, 4yo plus, 1m 4f, Class 5, £2047 penalty, 8 ran. Going: Good to Soft, Soft in places. Surface: Polytrack. Zafranagar ridden by stable jockey George Downing. Now this was a very special race. You never forget the first one and this was George Downings first win! Bet it felt great. Back to the race. Well for most of the race they lay against the farside rail in third position. Approaching the final bend Zafranagar and George took off. They simply sped away from the rest of the pack. They got faster and faster and there was no stopping them. George and Zafranagar crossed the line some six lengths in front of the rest. Even watching the replay the day after you can sense the excitement from horse and rider. Well done George and Zafranagar. Lets hope its the first of many wins for you. To watch the race click here. (please note this requires a free 'At The Races' account. If you do not have one you can sign in using the email address carrots@stables.com and use the password racehorse) Sporting Life said "chased leading pair, went 2nd travelling well inside final 3f, led approaching 2f out, soon ridden clear, easily opened 9/2 touched 9/2 "
Finally but by no means least Carlton Scroop ridden by Andrea Atzeni in the 17:50 Wolverhampton a Claiming Stakes. £2500 added, 4yo plus, 1m 5f 194y, Class 6, £1619 penalty, 5 ran. Going: Standard
Surface: Polytrack. On the home straight they lay second. Challenging all they time they managed to get to the front and won! To watch the race please click here. (please note this requires a free 'At The Races' account. If you do not have one you can sign in using the email address carrots@stables.com and use the password racehorse)
Wednesday January 19, Lingfield Park 15:05. A Claiming Stakes. £2250 added, 4yo plus, 2m, Class 6, £1535 penalty, 5 ran . Going: Standard. Surface: Polytrack. Dansilver ridden by Luke Morris. A small field for this race but that takes nothing away from the effort by horse and rider. Coming around the final bend Luke took Dansilver wide. Approaching the final furlong marker Dansilver changed gear and surged forward. Dansilver had a lovely turn of speed and made a terrific finish. Surging across the line leaving no doubt about who was the best horse there. Well done Dansilver, and Luke Morris of course. To watch the race please click here. (please note this requires a free 'At The Races' account. If you do not have one you can sign in using the email address carrots@stables.com and use the password racehorse)
Next winner. Thursday January 20. Lingfield Park 12:50. A Maiden Stakes. £3000 added, 4yo plus, 1m 4f, Class 5, £2047 penalty, 8 ran. Going: Good to Soft, Soft in places. Surface: Polytrack. Zafranagar ridden by stable jockey George Downing. Now this was a very special race. You never forget the first one and this was George Downings first win! Bet it felt great. Back to the race. Well for most of the race they lay against the farside rail in third position. Approaching the final bend Zafranagar and George took off. They simply sped away from the rest of the pack. They got faster and faster and there was no stopping them. George and Zafranagar crossed the line some six lengths in front of the rest. Even watching the replay the day after you can sense the excitement from horse and rider. Well done George and Zafranagar. Lets hope its the first of many wins for you. To watch the race click here. (please note this requires a free 'At The Races' account. If you do not have one you can sign in using the email address carrots@stables.com and use the password racehorse) Sporting Life said "chased leading pair, went 2nd travelling well inside final 3f, led approaching 2f out, soon ridden clear, easily opened 9/2 touched 9/2 "
Finally but by no means least Carlton Scroop ridden by Andrea Atzeni in the 17:50 Wolverhampton a Claiming Stakes. £2500 added, 4yo plus, 1m 5f 194y, Class 6, £1619 penalty, 5 ran. Going: Standard
Surface: Polytrack. On the home straight they lay second. Challenging all they time they managed to get to the front and won! To watch the race please click here. (please note this requires a free 'At The Races' account. If you do not have one you can sign in using the email address carrots@stables.com and use the password racehorse)
24th January
More winners!
Yes we had more winners at the weekend. The first one an Sunday, January 23, at Market Rasen in the 13:50. A Conditional Jockeys' Handicap Hurdle £4000 added, 4yo plus, 2m 5f, Class 4, £2602 penalty, 16 ran Going: Good, Good to Soft in places. Apache Chant ridden by Stable Jockey Lee Edwards. Lee kept Apache Chant around 2nd/3rd position for most of the race. Then after jumping the final Lee Edwards and Apache Chant made their move. Challenging for the line, riding flat out, and finally snatching victory in the last few yards. A good ride by horse and jockey Sporting Life said "mid-division, headway 7th, not much room approaching 2 out, challenged last, led flat, ridden out opened 14/1 touched 14/1 " To watch race please click here.
More winners!
Yes we had more winners at the weekend. The first one an Sunday, January 23, at Market Rasen in the 13:50. A Conditional Jockeys' Handicap Hurdle £4000 added, 4yo plus, 2m 5f, Class 4, £2602 penalty, 16 ran Going: Good, Good to Soft in places. Apache Chant ridden by Stable Jockey Lee Edwards. Lee kept Apache Chant around 2nd/3rd position for most of the race. Then after jumping the final Lee Edwards and Apache Chant made their move. Challenging for the line, riding flat out, and finally snatching victory in the last few yards. A good ride by horse and jockey Sporting Life said "mid-division, headway 7th, not much room approaching 2 out, challenged last, led flat, ridden out opened 14/1 touched 14/1 " To watch race please click here.
The next winner, again on Sunday 23rd, was at Towcester. The 14:00 a Handicap Chase. £3000 added, 5yo plus, 2m 110y, Class 5, £1952 penalty, 7 ran. Going: Soft, Heavy in places. According to reports it was very sticky in places. The horse was Kinkeel ridden by E Dehdashti (3). What a hard fought race. Right up to the line you were not sure he was going to do it but with lots of 'encouragement' by Dehdashti Kinkeel snatched victory. The look on Dehdashti's face at the end of the race was one of pure exhaustion. They both certainly had to work really hard for that victory. Sporting Life "chased leaders, outpaced approaching 8th, headway to challenge 3 out, every chance last, ridden to lead flat, edged left, all out opened 10/3 touched 9/2 " At The Races said " chased leaders, outpaced approaching 8th, headway to challenge 3 out, every chance last, ridden to lead flat, edged left, all out" " Don't the two comments sound similar? Racing Post " Always prominent, driven along after 7th, led flat, ridden and hung left, stayed on under pressure (op 10-3)" To watch the race please click here. (please note this requires a free 'At The Races' account. If you do not have one you can sign in using the email address carrots@stables.com and use the password racehorse)
My thanks to Mr. Ian Johnson for these photographs of Kinkeel running at Towcester.
My thanks to Mr. Ian Johnson for these photographs of Kinkeel running at Towcester.
28th January
I paid a trip to the stables yesterday. Boy was it cold. There was a brass monkey sitting at the side of the road crying, apparently he had lost something. I digress. Happy to report the horses are looking well and happy to get their polo mints. Mary, assistant trainer, was there sleeve's rolled up working on a horse as I stood there shivering in my overcoat. Dont make them like they used to, overcoats that is.
A winner! 13:20 Doncaster, 28 Jan. 2m 110y a Conditional Jockeys' Handicap Hurdle (Class 4) (4YO plus)
Winner £2,329 - 16 ran. Shalambar (IRE) 6/1 5 11 - 9 ridden by stable Jockey Lee Edwards. Lee and Shalambar kept up with the main body of horses and going over the last it was a three horse lead. Lee gave Shalambar his head and it soon became a two horse race. But neither horse was going to make it easy for the other. Lee Edwards worked hard with Shalambar and though no significant distance was gained they managed to keep ahead and crossed the line to win the race. Well done Lee Edwards and Shalambar. At The Races said " prominent, blundered 4 out, ridden before 3 out, led last 100 yards, all out " Racing Post "Tracked leaders, upsides when hit 5th, stayed on to lead last 150yds, all out (op 9-2 tchd 4-1) " To watch the race please click here. (please note this requires a free 'At The Races' account. If you do not have one you can sign in using the email address carrots@stables.com and use the password racehorse) Lee Edwards is wearing a yellow cap. Shalambar is the grey with the sheepskin noseband.
I paid a trip to the stables yesterday. Boy was it cold. There was a brass monkey sitting at the side of the road crying, apparently he had lost something. I digress. Happy to report the horses are looking well and happy to get their polo mints. Mary, assistant trainer, was there sleeve's rolled up working on a horse as I stood there shivering in my overcoat. Dont make them like they used to, overcoats that is.
A winner! 13:20 Doncaster, 28 Jan. 2m 110y a Conditional Jockeys' Handicap Hurdle (Class 4) (4YO plus)
Winner £2,329 - 16 ran. Shalambar (IRE) 6/1 5 11 - 9 ridden by stable Jockey Lee Edwards. Lee and Shalambar kept up with the main body of horses and going over the last it was a three horse lead. Lee gave Shalambar his head and it soon became a two horse race. But neither horse was going to make it easy for the other. Lee Edwards worked hard with Shalambar and though no significant distance was gained they managed to keep ahead and crossed the line to win the race. Well done Lee Edwards and Shalambar. At The Races said " prominent, blundered 4 out, ridden before 3 out, led last 100 yards, all out " Racing Post "Tracked leaders, upsides when hit 5th, stayed on to lead last 150yds, all out (op 9-2 tchd 4-1) " To watch the race please click here. (please note this requires a free 'At The Races' account. If you do not have one you can sign in using the email address carrots@stables.com and use the password racehorse) Lee Edwards is wearing a yellow cap. Shalambar is the grey with the sheepskin noseband.
31st January
I seem doomed not to attend races. I could not go last year due to ill health and this year they seem to hear I want to go racing and call it off. So my apologise to those of you who planned to go to Chepstow, called off last week, and Ludlow this morning.
Whilst browsing the web I came across a website that readers may find interesting. It's a free website for checking a horse's pedigree. Only the first line is, in my humble opinion, of any use. Personally I would ignore the rest. So here is the link :-
Click here to check horse's pedigree.
If you do find it of use please tell me and I will put it up on the office page for easy future reference.
I seem doomed not to attend races. I could not go last year due to ill health and this year they seem to hear I want to go racing and call it off. So my apologise to those of you who planned to go to Chepstow, called off last week, and Ludlow this morning.
Whilst browsing the web I came across a website that readers may find interesting. It's a free website for checking a horse's pedigree. Only the first line is, in my humble opinion, of any use. Personally I would ignore the rest. So here is the link :-
Click here to check horse's pedigree.
If you do find it of use please tell me and I will put it up on the office page for easy future reference.
2nd February
Weird Website problems. Sorry to those of you having difficulties getting on the website. It was not me it was the hosting server. I spent over an hour pulling my hair out (and I have not got much left to pull out) trying to work out what was wrong. Eventually I got through to someone in India, who's accent was even worse than mine, who after spending ten mins asking security questions, i.e what did your mother have for breakfast last week etc, eventually told me that the problem was at their end. So if you experienced missing menu buttons and graphics, or even more than one set of menus it was a combination of me trying to fix the problem and some guy in India doing his best to annoy me/us. Hopefully all fixed now!
Can anyone tell me why when the website is hosted in Gloucester I should have to speak to someone inCalcutta Kolkata ? Must be cost?
Weird Website problems. Sorry to those of you having difficulties getting on the website. It was not me it was the hosting server. I spent over an hour pulling my hair out (and I have not got much left to pull out) trying to work out what was wrong. Eventually I got through to someone in India, who's accent was even worse than mine, who after spending ten mins asking security questions, i.e what did your mother have for breakfast last week etc, eventually told me that the problem was at their end. So if you experienced missing menu buttons and graphics, or even more than one set of menus it was a combination of me trying to fix the problem and some guy in India doing his best to annoy me/us. Hopefully all fixed now!
Can anyone tell me why when the website is hosted in Gloucester I should have to speak to someone in
3rd February.
A winner and I have not even been up to the stables this morning, should be going up in a couple of hours.
Ok the winner:- Wednesday February 2nd at Kempton Park in the 17:50. A Racing Handicap £2250 added, 4yo plus, 1m, Class 7, £1535 penalty, 10 ran. Going: Standard, Surface: Polytrack. Aggbag ridden by Robert Winston. Well what a super race. In the final furlongs Aggbag and jockey found a gap by the rail and worked their way through the main body of horses. But they were not going to have it all their own way. Seriously challenged by surrounding horses Aggbag had to really strive to get to the front. Once through Aggbag broke away from the pack then it was a flat out race for the finish. Aggbag and Robert dug up that bit extra you need to win a race like this and pulled away from the challengers and strove across the line for a strong, convincing, win. A really good race, one that the connections and jockey will no doubt mark down as very memorable. Well done to the both horse and rider. To watch this race please click here. Aggbag is toward the rail in grey colours if you watch the replay. Racing post " Tracked leaders, closed 2f out, led over 1f out, soon pressed, driven and kept on well (tchd 5-2 and 3-1) "
A winner and I have not even been up to the stables this morning, should be going up in a couple of hours.
Ok the winner:- Wednesday February 2nd at Kempton Park in the 17:50. A Racing Handicap £2250 added, 4yo plus, 1m, Class 7, £1535 penalty, 10 ran. Going: Standard, Surface: Polytrack. Aggbag ridden by Robert Winston. Well what a super race. In the final furlongs Aggbag and jockey found a gap by the rail and worked their way through the main body of horses. But they were not going to have it all their own way. Seriously challenged by surrounding horses Aggbag had to really strive to get to the front. Once through Aggbag broke away from the pack then it was a flat out race for the finish. Aggbag and Robert dug up that bit extra you need to win a race like this and pulled away from the challengers and strove across the line for a strong, convincing, win. A really good race, one that the connections and jockey will no doubt mark down as very memorable. Well done to the both horse and rider. To watch this race please click here. Aggbag is toward the rail in grey colours if you watch the replay. Racing post " Tracked leaders, closed 2f out, led over 1f out, soon pressed, driven and kept on well (tchd 5-2 and 3-1) "
4th February.
I regret to say I did not make it to the stables yesterday, forgot there are only 24 hours in a day to fit everything in.
Whilst going through some files I came across some old photos and decided to experiment. The result is a photo album I quickly put together in a new format. Take a look and please let me know that you think. These things take time and it would be nice to know if it is worth the effort, or not, to put all the current photos in a photo album of this style. Please feel free to say if you think the album should be brighter/different colour etc.
Click this line to visit the new photo album page.
As I said before I would be grateful if you could let me know what you think of the new photo album style.
To leave feedback regarding the potential new photo album design, or anything else please
Click this line to go to the Feedback page. Thanks!
I regret to say I did not make it to the stables yesterday, forgot there are only 24 hours in a day to fit everything in.
Whilst going through some files I came across some old photos and decided to experiment. The result is a photo album I quickly put together in a new format. Take a look and please let me know that you think. These things take time and it would be nice to know if it is worth the effort, or not, to put all the current photos in a photo album of this style. Please feel free to say if you think the album should be brighter/different colour etc.
Click this line to visit the new photo album page.
As I said before I would be grateful if you could let me know what you think of the new photo album style.
To leave feedback regarding the potential new photo album design, or anything else please
Click this line to go to the Feedback page. Thanks!
5th February
Another winner. This was on Monday February 7 at Wolverhampton in the 15:30. A Selling Stakes. £2250 added, 3yo plus, 7f 32y, Class 6, £1535 penalty, 7 ran. Going: Standard. Surface: Polytrack. Unlimited ridden by Luke Morris. Coming around the final bend Unlimited lay third but as they entered the straight Luke Morris urged Unlimited on and with a furlong to go Unlimited had a length lead. Still surging forward by the time the duo crossed the line they were six lengths in front. A nice win. Sporting Life said "tracked leaders, went 2nd 2f out, soon led, eased towards finish opened 11/4 touched 10/3 "
To watch the race please click here. (please note this requires a free 'At The Races' account. If you do not have one you can sign in using the email address carrots@stables.com and use the password racehorse)
Another winner. This was on Monday February 7 at Wolverhampton in the 15:30. A Selling Stakes. £2250 added, 3yo plus, 7f 32y, Class 6, £1535 penalty, 7 ran. Going: Standard. Surface: Polytrack. Unlimited ridden by Luke Morris. Coming around the final bend Unlimited lay third but as they entered the straight Luke Morris urged Unlimited on and with a furlong to go Unlimited had a length lead. Still surging forward by the time the duo crossed the line they were six lengths in front. A nice win. Sporting Life said "tracked leaders, went 2nd 2f out, soon led, eased towards finish opened 11/4 touched 10/3 "
To watch the race please click here. (please note this requires a free 'At The Races' account. If you do not have one you can sign in using the email address carrots@stables.com and use the password racehorse)
I actually managed to get down to the stables today. Tony was taking full advantage of the beautiful weather and there were horses exercising everywhere. I do not think I have ever seen so many horses out all at once on one day. The horses looked great with their coats gleaming in the sun. Certainly looked fit. I was so busy watching the schooling that I forgot to take some pictures, until after the last lot that is! But I have promised myself I will be down there early next Tuesday to try and get a few schooling snap shots for you. As I said it was a lovely day and it was nice to see quite a few connections visiting and watching too.
As you may have gathered by the message on the front page I am making a few changes to the photo albums on the website. My apologies if you experience problems viewing the odd photo etc. I should have things back up and running with new style photo albums as quickly as I can. The new photo albums will present the photographs much better, though perhaps just a little slower to load.
On a final note can I thank all those who replied to the survey, see GG 4th Feb below. Some very nice messages, it is nice to have some encouragement.
As you may have gathered by the message on the front page I am making a few changes to the photo albums on the website. My apologies if you experience problems viewing the odd photo etc. I should have things back up and running with new style photo albums as quickly as I can. The new photo albums will present the photographs much better, though perhaps just a little slower to load.
On a final note can I thank all those who replied to the survey, see GG 4th Feb below. Some very nice messages, it is nice to have some encouragement.
6th February
Just a little information for you as I know many of you just love the stats. In less than four weeks Millhouse Racing has had 20 win's or places. Of those almost half, nine to be precise, have been wins. What a nice start to the year.
Just a little information for you as I know many of you just love the stats. In less than four weeks Millhouse Racing has had 20 win's or places. Of those almost half, nine to be precise, have been wins. What a nice start to the year.
10th February.
As you may have gathered, by the little arrows on the front page, that I have been working on the website. Mainly on the photo album. Personally, and by the reactions I got from the survey, I feel they look much better. A much more professional and more pleasing look don't you think? The pages need a few more small 'tweeks' but essentially they are up and running now.
The arrow on the facilities page is there because I added a couple more photos, and more to come, of the facilities. Namely the all weather run and an exercise paddock. Oh yes. Almost forgot. Hope you like the counter above. Let me know if you like it, or find it irritating won't you? It could also be used for Ascot etc.
Hoping to get to the stables this morning. I called in on Monday but without polo's and carrots. I actually think the horse looked disappointed. Cannot have that can we?
As you may have gathered, by the little arrows on the front page, that I have been working on the website. Mainly on the photo album. Personally, and by the reactions I got from the survey, I feel they look much better. A much more professional and more pleasing look don't you think? The pages need a few more small 'tweeks' but essentially they are up and running now.
The arrow on the facilities page is there because I added a couple more photos, and more to come, of the facilities. Namely the all weather run and an exercise paddock. Oh yes. Almost forgot. Hope you like the counter above. Let me know if you like it, or find it irritating won't you? It could also be used for Ascot etc.
Hoping to get to the stables this morning. I called in on Monday but without polo's and carrots. I actually think the horse looked disappointed. Cannot have that can we?
13th February
Another winner on Saturday, February 12, at Warwick in the 13:40 a Novices' Handicap Hurdle
£4500 added, 4yo plus, 2m, Class 4, £2927 penalty, 14 ran. Going: Good to Soft. Shalambar (IRE) ridden by stable jockey Lee Edwards (5). Well Lee and Shalambar were pace setters right from the start. They were in the lead for most of the race and kept a steady pace with few challengers. Approaching the finish one wondered if Shalambar and Lee could keep up the run to the line. But Lee did not flap and pushed Shalambar on and they kept their head to cross the line victorious. Well done Lee Edwards and Shalambar. Sporting Life said "with leader, led 4th, ridden approaching 2 out, hung left approaching last and flat, held on opened 4/1 touched 4/1 £1800-£400 £2000-£500 £1200-£300 " To watch the race please click here. If you watch the race look for the grey at the front with the sheepskin noseband.
Another winner on Saturday, February 12, at Warwick in the 13:40 a Novices' Handicap Hurdle
£4500 added, 4yo plus, 2m, Class 4, £2927 penalty, 14 ran. Going: Good to Soft. Shalambar (IRE) ridden by stable jockey Lee Edwards (5). Well Lee and Shalambar were pace setters right from the start. They were in the lead for most of the race and kept a steady pace with few challengers. Approaching the finish one wondered if Shalambar and Lee could keep up the run to the line. But Lee did not flap and pushed Shalambar on and they kept their head to cross the line victorious. Well done Lee Edwards and Shalambar. Sporting Life said "with leader, led 4th, ridden approaching 2 out, hung left approaching last and flat, held on opened 4/1 touched 4/1 £1800-£400 £2000-£500 £1200-£300 " To watch the race please click here. If you watch the race look for the grey at the front with the sheepskin noseband.
17th February
Another exciting race. Wednesday February 16 Kempton Park 19:40. A Handicap £6000 added, 4yo plus, 7f, Class 4, £3886 penalty, 8 ran. Going: Standard. Surface: Polytrack. Ocean Legend (IRE) ridden by Neil Callan. Coming up to the two furlong marker Ocean Legend made for home and by the final furlong marker it was a two horse race. Each riding flat out. Crossing the line you could not tell who had won it was that close. A photo finish was called and the judges agreed. It was a dead heat. Valiant effort by Ocean Legend and Neil Callan.
To watch the race click here. If you watch the race Ocean Legend is on on the outside rail the Jockey wearing Blue colours. Sporting Life said "mid-division, headway 2f out, ridden over 1f out, led narrowly inside final furlong, joined on line opened 3/1 touched 10/3"
Another exciting race. Wednesday February 16 Kempton Park 19:40. A Handicap £6000 added, 4yo plus, 7f, Class 4, £3886 penalty, 8 ran. Going: Standard. Surface: Polytrack. Ocean Legend (IRE) ridden by Neil Callan. Coming up to the two furlong marker Ocean Legend made for home and by the final furlong marker it was a two horse race. Each riding flat out. Crossing the line you could not tell who had won it was that close. A photo finish was called and the judges agreed. It was a dead heat. Valiant effort by Ocean Legend and Neil Callan.
To watch the race click here. If you watch the race Ocean Legend is on on the outside rail the Jockey wearing Blue colours. Sporting Life said "mid-division, headway 2f out, ridden over 1f out, led narrowly inside final furlong, joined on line opened 3/1 touched 10/3"
I actually managed to get up to the stables today. It was my intention to go last Tuesday and watch the schooling but the weather was so bad it was not contusive to good photography. That is a fancy way of saying I did not want to stand in a muddy puddle taking photographs that would not turn out too well. But I did make it up today. There are so many new horses starting in the stables I am finding it hard to keep track (no pun intended! )
Chatting to Tony Carroll today he told me he has lots of exciting plans for the yard and horses. Rather than me trying to relay the information second hand I have asked Tony Carroll to write a short article for the website. This he has promised to do. He did not say when, but he did say he would. Naturally he prefers to train the horses than talk about it, luckily for us!
I have a few more photographs to up load to the website, which I will get around to eventually. I did also intend to photograph a few of the new horses but their coats are not at the best this time of year. Will wait till they have their gleaming new summer coats.
I have a few more photographs to up load to the website, which I will get around to eventually. I did also intend to photograph a few of the new horses but their coats are not at the best this time of year. Will wait till they have their gleaming new summer coats.
I Have requested an up-to-date horses in training list. Will update website when I have new list.
19th February
A winner today at Lingfield (AW) in the 1:45 a claiming Stakes (Class 6) (3yo) 1m Standard. Malice Or Mischief (IRE) ridden by Neil Callan. Malice Or Mischief came out of the starting gate in third position. For much of the race he looked as though he was not going to make it through the leading horses. 5 furlongs, 4 furlongs, 3, 2 furlongs still in third. Still blocked in. Then coming out of the final bend and only one furlong to go Neil pushed Malice or Mischief on and made all for the line. They were still accelerating as they sped across the finish line over 3 lengths ahead of the nearest rivals. A good race which no doubt delighted connections and viewers alike. Racing Post said " Awkward to load into stalls, chased leading pair, pushed along 3f out, went 2nd over 2f out, ridden to lead over 1f out, soon clear (op 7-2) " If you want to watch the race please click here. (please note this requires a free 'At The Races' account. If you do not have one you can sign in using the email address carrots@stables.com and use the password racehorse)
I would like to take this opportunity to wish a certain young rider all the best for his race on Monday. I shall not mention his name as I do not want to put additional pressure on him. Good luck *******! :)
One last thing. I have added two or three photos to the end of the 'Yard' photo album.
A winner today at Lingfield (AW) in the 1:45 a claiming Stakes (Class 6) (3yo) 1m Standard. Malice Or Mischief (IRE) ridden by Neil Callan. Malice Or Mischief came out of the starting gate in third position. For much of the race he looked as though he was not going to make it through the leading horses. 5 furlongs, 4 furlongs, 3, 2 furlongs still in third. Still blocked in. Then coming out of the final bend and only one furlong to go Neil pushed Malice or Mischief on and made all for the line. They were still accelerating as they sped across the finish line over 3 lengths ahead of the nearest rivals. A good race which no doubt delighted connections and viewers alike. Racing Post said " Awkward to load into stalls, chased leading pair, pushed along 3f out, went 2nd over 2f out, ridden to lead over 1f out, soon clear (op 7-2) " If you want to watch the race please click here. (please note this requires a free 'At The Races' account. If you do not have one you can sign in using the email address carrots@stables.com and use the password racehorse)
I would like to take this opportunity to wish a certain young rider all the best for his race on Monday. I shall not mention his name as I do not want to put additional pressure on him. Good luck *******! :)
One last thing. I have added two or three photos to the end of the 'Yard' photo album.
22nd February
The next generation?
As some of you no doubt already know yesterday was an important day for one young man. Charlie Carroll, son of Tony Carroll, rode in his first public race. Monday 21st the 15:00 race at Wolverhampton. A Amateur Riders' Handicap (Div 2) for 4yo plus, 1m 4f 50y, Class 6, 12 ran. Going: Standard. Surface: Polytrack. He rode Acropolis (IRE). They came 7th out of 14 a very good ride against much more experienced riders. To watch the race please click here. (please note this requires a free 'At The Races' account. If you do not have one you can sign in using the email address carrots@stables.com and use the password racehorse) I will also be putting up an album of this race on the photo page soon, look out for that.
I spoke to Charlie this morning on the gallops. He said he was overwhelmed by all the support and encouragement that everyone had shown him either directly at the racecourse or by email and on facebook. He asked me to use this website to thank everyone for their kindness and support. There were several owners who went to Wolverhampton to cheer him on as well as a few friends and school friends. All in all quite a crowd, much to the bemusement of the other racecourse users! To think I did not go because I didn't want to put pressure on him! So on behalf of Charlie Carroll a great big thank you!
As you will have gathered from the above I went to the gallops this morning and it was quite dramatic at one stage when two horses belted up the gallops at full throttle. I was very impressed until I realised the horses had decided to do what they do best and race each other, ignoring the jockeys. They had bolted. When they charged past me they were going far too fast to take the bend so went through the rails instead. Luckily the rails are designed for such things and flew apart ejecting one of the riders to the turf. Before you start worrying the only thing that was hurt were three plastic tubes, four shrubs, and a stable lads pride. To prevent further injury to the afore mentioned I am not going to tell you his name. Connections present found it dramatic at first then amusing. As I said no horses were hurt in any way, in fact I think the horses found it amusing too.
The next generation?
As some of you no doubt already know yesterday was an important day for one young man. Charlie Carroll, son of Tony Carroll, rode in his first public race. Monday 21st the 15:00 race at Wolverhampton. A Amateur Riders' Handicap (Div 2) for 4yo plus, 1m 4f 50y, Class 6, 12 ran. Going: Standard. Surface: Polytrack. He rode Acropolis (IRE). They came 7th out of 14 a very good ride against much more experienced riders. To watch the race please click here. (please note this requires a free 'At The Races' account. If you do not have one you can sign in using the email address carrots@stables.com and use the password racehorse) I will also be putting up an album of this race on the photo page soon, look out for that.
I spoke to Charlie this morning on the gallops. He said he was overwhelmed by all the support and encouragement that everyone had shown him either directly at the racecourse or by email and on facebook. He asked me to use this website to thank everyone for their kindness and support. There were several owners who went to Wolverhampton to cheer him on as well as a few friends and school friends. All in all quite a crowd, much to the bemusement of the other racecourse users! To think I did not go because I didn't want to put pressure on him! So on behalf of Charlie Carroll a great big thank you!
As you will have gathered from the above I went to the gallops this morning and it was quite dramatic at one stage when two horses belted up the gallops at full throttle. I was very impressed until I realised the horses had decided to do what they do best and race each other, ignoring the jockeys. They had bolted. When they charged past me they were going far too fast to take the bend so went through the rails instead. Luckily the rails are designed for such things and flew apart ejecting one of the riders to the turf. Before you start worrying the only thing that was hurt were three plastic tubes, four shrubs, and a stable lads pride. To prevent further injury to the afore mentioned I am not going to tell you his name. Connections present found it dramatic at first then amusing. As I said no horses were hurt in any way, in fact I think the horses found it amusing too.
Groundsman Robin replacing rails and replanting shrubs after emergency exit! The wooden rails in background are much further away than it appears in this photo. The horses were in no danger of running into those.
The Cayterers schooling, NOT involved in the above..
25th February.
A winner yesterday, Thursday February 24. Kempton Park 20:10 At Kempton a Conditions Stakes. 4yo plus, 1m 4f, Class 4, 6 ran. Going: Standard. Surface: Polytrack. King Olav (UAE) ridden by Neil Callan. An inspiring, tactical ride by Neil Callan. From out of the gate two horses led and King Olav was one of them. Neil took a tactical chance and broke first and I think it took the others by surprise. But by the time they were passing the final furlong marker they had gathered speed and quite a lead. It was too late for the other racers to put up a serious challenge and King Olav never slowed and finished really strong. Good ride! To watch the race please click here. Racing Post said " tracked leader, led over 2f out and soon kicked 3 lengths clear, ridden out and in no danger final furlong (op 16-1) "
The next winner, today 25th February, Malice Or Mischief (IRE) ridden by N Callan. This time at Lingfield(A.W) in the 15:40. 1m 2f a Claiming Stakes (Class 6) (3YO only) 4 ran. Dispite this being a claimer the competion was quite strong and by no means an easy race. At the start Malice or Mischief was at the rear of the small pack. Malice or Mischief went around the bend on the far side and moved up to third position. Coming around the final bend Neil put in the challenge. The pace quickened. Final furlong Neil and Malice or Mischief put in a sprint and went all out for the line. By the time they crossed the line the were well ahead of the rest. I have said it before and I will say it again, horses for courses. Three wins from three starts at Lingfield, speaks for itself really. Well done Malice or Mischief and Neil Callan. At The Races said "tracked leaders in 3rd, went 2nd 2f out, led 1f out, pushed out, readily" To watch the race please click here. (please note this requires a free 'At The Races' account. If you do not have one you can sign in using the email address carrots@stables.com and use the password racehorse)
A winner yesterday, Thursday February 24. Kempton Park 20:10 At Kempton a Conditions Stakes. 4yo plus, 1m 4f, Class 4, 6 ran. Going: Standard. Surface: Polytrack. King Olav (UAE) ridden by Neil Callan. An inspiring, tactical ride by Neil Callan. From out of the gate two horses led and King Olav was one of them. Neil took a tactical chance and broke first and I think it took the others by surprise. But by the time they were passing the final furlong marker they had gathered speed and quite a lead. It was too late for the other racers to put up a serious challenge and King Olav never slowed and finished really strong. Good ride! To watch the race please click here. Racing Post said " tracked leader, led over 2f out and soon kicked 3 lengths clear, ridden out and in no danger final furlong (op 16-1) "
The next winner, today 25th February, Malice Or Mischief (IRE) ridden by N Callan. This time at Lingfield(A.W) in the 15:40. 1m 2f a Claiming Stakes (Class 6) (3YO only) 4 ran. Dispite this being a claimer the competion was quite strong and by no means an easy race. At the start Malice or Mischief was at the rear of the small pack. Malice or Mischief went around the bend on the far side and moved up to third position. Coming around the final bend Neil put in the challenge. The pace quickened. Final furlong Neil and Malice or Mischief put in a sprint and went all out for the line. By the time they crossed the line the were well ahead of the rest. I have said it before and I will say it again, horses for courses. Three wins from three starts at Lingfield, speaks for itself really. Well done Malice or Mischief and Neil Callan. At The Races said "tracked leaders in 3rd, went 2nd 2f out, led 1f out, pushed out, readily" To watch the race please click here. (please note this requires a free 'At The Races' account. If you do not have one you can sign in using the email address carrots@stables.com and use the password racehorse)
27th February.
Hope you like the subtle changes to some of the web pages. More improvements gradually over the next week or so. As always if you see any errors or something does not look quite right please do not hesitate to email me. Editor@awcarroll.co.uk I will not be offended, in fact I will be quite greatfull. See what I mean? Would you have spotted that error or told me? For those of you with recent education it should have been spelt grateful. :) I put this text 'smiley' in just for you.
Good luck to Kinkeel this afternoon at Towcester!
Hope you like the subtle changes to some of the web pages. More improvements gradually over the next week or so. As always if you see any errors or something does not look quite right please do not hesitate to email me. Editor@awcarroll.co.uk I will not be offended, in fact I will be quite greatfull. See what I mean? Would you have spotted that error or told me? For those of you with recent education it should have been spelt grateful. :) I put this text 'smiley' in just for you.
Good luck to Kinkeel this afternoon at Towcester!
2nd March
I have not even been up to the stables this week with the polo mint bribes for the horses and we still have a winner today. 14:30 Wolverhampton a 1m 141y race on the All Weather. A 'Hands And Heels' Apprentice Series Handicap (Class 6) (4YO plus). 8 ran. Grey boy ridden by stable jockey George Downing.
Coming out of the gates they certainly did not have any sort of advantage. For most of the race George and Grey Boy were against the rail and in third place. Coming around the final bend they dropped back to fourth. At this point George Downing took Grey Boy wide to go around the pack instead of trying to find, or force, a gap through. A bit of a gamble either way but you have to make the choice and stick with it. It was at this point I became very impressed with George's restraint. He did not touch the stick at all. Grey Boy seemed to appreciate this and began to gain speed. ( After the race I realised it was a 'hands and heels' race. ) Right down to the last few yards it looked uncertain that Grey Boy was going to do it. But the others were drained and Grey Boy and George found that bit extra and flashed across the line winners. Well done Grey Boy and George Downing. To watch the race please click here. (please note this requires a free 'At The Races' account. If you do not have one you can sign in using the email address carrots@stables.com and use the password racehorse)
I have not even been up to the stables this week with the polo mint bribes for the horses and we still have a winner today. 14:30 Wolverhampton a 1m 141y race on the All Weather. A 'Hands And Heels' Apprentice Series Handicap (Class 6) (4YO plus). 8 ran. Grey boy ridden by stable jockey George Downing.
Coming out of the gates they certainly did not have any sort of advantage. For most of the race George and Grey Boy were against the rail and in third place. Coming around the final bend they dropped back to fourth. At this point George Downing took Grey Boy wide to go around the pack instead of trying to find, or force, a gap through. A bit of a gamble either way but you have to make the choice and stick with it. It was at this point I became very impressed with George's restraint. He did not touch the stick at all. Grey Boy seemed to appreciate this and began to gain speed. ( After the race I realised it was a 'hands and heels' race. ) Right down to the last few yards it looked uncertain that Grey Boy was going to do it. But the others were drained and Grey Boy and George found that bit extra and flashed across the line winners. Well done Grey Boy and George Downing. To watch the race please click here. (please note this requires a free 'At The Races' account. If you do not have one you can sign in using the email address carrots@stables.com and use the password racehorse)
6th March
A winner. Saturday March 5. Kempton Park 13:45. A ' Novices' Hurdle with £4000 added, 4yo plus, 2m, Class 4, £2602 penalty, 10 ran. Going: Good, Good to Soft in places. Smart Catch ridden by Wayne Hutchinson. At one stage they were offering 100/1 on this horse then it's SP dropped to 66/1. Isn't hindsight wonderful? Then again if we knew what the result would be before a race started it would not really matter what the odds were would it? Back to the race. Smart Catch did not look much of a threat for most of the race but they slowly made their way up to the front four. At the final furlong marker they jumped the last and Wayne changed gear and went for it. They simply left the rest standing. Sprinting home with no near challengers. They made it look easy. Certainly won't be 100/1 the next time this horse runs. Well done Wayne Hutchinson and Smart Catch. To watch the race please click here. If you watch the race look for the purple colours with the distinctive circles on jockeys cap.
I visited the stables at the end of the week and I am pleased to report all the horses looked very well. Positively tearing up the gallops. You know when something just feels right don't you? I was about to say it won't be long before we have another winner, but after writing the above about Smart Catch that would sound rather obvious!
I have also put up two of Tony's horses on the For Sale page. He bought them a while ago because he believed they were good value at the time and had good future prospects on the racecourse. They are now ready to start full time training. Should be interesting to follow them when they have new owners. Take a look.
A winner. Saturday March 5. Kempton Park 13:45. A ' Novices' Hurdle with £4000 added, 4yo plus, 2m, Class 4, £2602 penalty, 10 ran. Going: Good, Good to Soft in places. Smart Catch ridden by Wayne Hutchinson. At one stage they were offering 100/1 on this horse then it's SP dropped to 66/1. Isn't hindsight wonderful? Then again if we knew what the result would be before a race started it would not really matter what the odds were would it? Back to the race. Smart Catch did not look much of a threat for most of the race but they slowly made their way up to the front four. At the final furlong marker they jumped the last and Wayne changed gear and went for it. They simply left the rest standing. Sprinting home with no near challengers. They made it look easy. Certainly won't be 100/1 the next time this horse runs. Well done Wayne Hutchinson and Smart Catch. To watch the race please click here. If you watch the race look for the purple colours with the distinctive circles on jockeys cap.
I visited the stables at the end of the week and I am pleased to report all the horses looked very well. Positively tearing up the gallops. You know when something just feels right don't you? I was about to say it won't be long before we have another winner, but after writing the above about Smart Catch that would sound rather obvious!
I have also put up two of Tony's horses on the For Sale page. He bought them a while ago because he believed they were good value at the time and had good future prospects on the racecourse. They are now ready to start full time training. Should be interesting to follow them when they have new owners. Take a look.
9th March.
I visited the stables yesterday. Glorious day, lots of sunshine and very busy staff. Polo mints given out and gratefully received. The horses are looking in good form.
Winner today, Wednesday March 9 at Kempton Park 19:00. A Claiming Stakes. £3000 added, 3yo plus, 7f, Class 5, £2047 penalty, 4 ran. Going: Standard. Surface: Polytrack. Jake The Snake ridden by Neil Callan. Neil rode a very tactical race. Basically he rode at the rear of the pack then at the two furlong marker went wide and put on a turn of speed. At the final furlong post Jake The Snake pushed forward and took the lead, challenged all the way. But Jake The Snake and Neil Callan stormed across the line to take the race. Sporting Life said "held up in close 4th, headway on outside 2f out, chased leader over 1f out, ridden to lead inside final furlong, ran on well opened 13/8 touched 7/4 " To watch the race please click here.
I received a few nice comments lately either by email or personally. I would like to thank those who gave them. Sometimes you wonder if anyone appreciates the work you put into these columns so it is good to get some feed back, even better if its positive!
I visited the stables yesterday. Glorious day, lots of sunshine and very busy staff. Polo mints given out and gratefully received. The horses are looking in good form.
Winner today, Wednesday March 9 at Kempton Park 19:00. A Claiming Stakes. £3000 added, 3yo plus, 7f, Class 5, £2047 penalty, 4 ran. Going: Standard. Surface: Polytrack. Jake The Snake ridden by Neil Callan. Neil rode a very tactical race. Basically he rode at the rear of the pack then at the two furlong marker went wide and put on a turn of speed. At the final furlong post Jake The Snake pushed forward and took the lead, challenged all the way. But Jake The Snake and Neil Callan stormed across the line to take the race. Sporting Life said "held up in close 4th, headway on outside 2f out, chased leader over 1f out, ridden to lead inside final furlong, ran on well opened 13/8 touched 7/4 " To watch the race please click here.
I received a few nice comments lately either by email or personally. I would like to thank those who gave them. Sometimes you wonder if anyone appreciates the work you put into these columns so it is good to get some feed back, even better if its positive!
11th March.
A win yesterday for The Cayterers at Wincanton 14:30. A Handicap Hurdle £6600 added, 4yo plus, 2m, Class 3, £4293 penalty, 10 ran. Going: Good to Firm, Good in places. The Cayterers ridden by Lee Edwards (5). From jumping the 2nd from home The Cayterers and Lee Edwards took the lead. They were challenged but managed to keep in front. Jumping the last The Cayterers found a turn of speed and left it in no doubt who was the best horse in the race. Not slowing The Cayterers and stable jockey Lee Edwards crossed the line to win leaving the second and the rest of the chasing horses well behind. Sporting Life said " held up in touch, took keen hold, closed after 6th, led 2 out, clear last, eased towards finish opened 6/1 touched 9/1 " To watch the race please click here.
A win yesterday for The Cayterers at Wincanton 14:30. A Handicap Hurdle £6600 added, 4yo plus, 2m, Class 3, £4293 penalty, 10 ran. Going: Good to Firm, Good in places. The Cayterers ridden by Lee Edwards (5). From jumping the 2nd from home The Cayterers and Lee Edwards took the lead. They were challenged but managed to keep in front. Jumping the last The Cayterers found a turn of speed and left it in no doubt who was the best horse in the race. Not slowing The Cayterers and stable jockey Lee Edwards crossed the line to win leaving the second and the rest of the chasing horses well behind. Sporting Life said " held up in touch, took keen hold, closed after 6th, led 2 out, clear last, eased towards finish opened 6/1 touched 9/1 " To watch the race please click here.
15th March.
Visited the stables today. All looked very well and when I left at 2pm they were just going out with the last lot. So you can see how busy they are. I watched them on the gallops with some connections who were visiting their horse's. Very impressed with their skill at recognising the horses and naming them. I still find myself, though not quite as often now, feeding and making a fuss of a horse only to find that it was not one of ours. Having said that I did forget my wife one day at the supermarket and drove home without her, so no surprises there. Carrots and polo's given out for another week. All looking very fit.
Photo on right is of the connections I mentioned above. Visitors are always welcome at the stables.
Visited the stables today. All looked very well and when I left at 2pm they were just going out with the last lot. So you can see how busy they are. I watched them on the gallops with some connections who were visiting their horse's. Very impressed with their skill at recognising the horses and naming them. I still find myself, though not quite as often now, feeding and making a fuss of a horse only to find that it was not one of ours. Having said that I did forget my wife one day at the supermarket and drove home without her, so no surprises there. Carrots and polo's given out for another week. All looking very fit.
Photo on right is of the connections I mentioned above. Visitors are always welcome at the stables.
19th March
I do have a lot of catching up to do. This week we have had four winners. So I will shut up (can you shut up typing?) and tell you about them.
First of the week was Carr Hall ridden by Luke Morris on Wednesday March 16th at Kempton Park 18:20. A Handicap race. £2250 added, 4yo plus, 1m 2f, Class 6, £1535 penalty, 13 ran. Now I saw this horse on the gallops last Tuesday and I was impressed. But it all depended on his draw at Kempton, and it looks like he got a good one. It is generally considered the high draws have an advantage at Kempton, when it is over 5f. Three horses crossed the line together. Carr Hall in the middle. From where I was sitting I could not decide who had got it but the photo finish said Carr Hall the winner. I for one am not going to argue with them! Watch the video and see if you can tell who had won. Click here to watch the race. Sporting life said " in touch, ridden and headway to chase leaders over 1f out, stayed on to lead final 50 yards, just held on opened 16/1 touched 16/1 " Racing Post "Tracked leaders, ridden over 1f out, kept on to lead final 75yds, just held on, all out (op 16-1) "
Next we had Gouranga. Gouranga did not look the happiest of horses the last time she ran at Sedgefield. I asked staff at the stables why they thought she underperformed and opinions were that it was either the long trip, some horses don't travel well or it could have been she did not get on with the Jockey. Your opinion is as valid as mine! But the girl 'dun good' at Towcester on Thursday March 17. The 17:35 a Conditional Jockeys' Handicap Hurdle. £2500 added, 4yo plus, 2m 3f 110y, Class 5, £1626 penalty, 9 ran. Going: Good to Soft, Good in places. Ridden by Robert Kirk. Well what a great race! Right from the start Gouranga challenged the leaders and was never further back than third. Three from home they quickened the pace and started to leave the rest behind. By the final furlong marker it was virtually a two horse race and Gouranga was accelerating. Gouranga crossed the finish line and made it look easy. Good riding by Robert Kirk and very good jumping from Gouranga. Enjoy the race by clicking here to watch it. (please note this requires a free 'At The Races' account. If you do not have one you can sign in using the email address carrots@stables.com and use the password racehorse)
Racing Post said "Mostly chased leader, ridden to lead after 3 out, clear next, stayed on well (op 13-2 tchd 6-1)"
Winner number three. Friday March 18. Wolverhampton 19:20. A Handicap (Div 2) £2000 added, 4yo plus, 1m 141y, Class 6, £1365 penalty, 10 ran. Going: Standard. Surface: Polytrack. Grey Boy ridden by stable jockey George Downing. George and Grey Boy started to make their move coming around the final bend. Keeping up with the leader they chased them down and snatched victory in the last yard or so. Bet it felt good George! Well done. To watch the race please click here. (please note this requires a free 'At The Races' account. If you do not have one you can sign in using the email address carrots@stables.com and use the password racehorse) Racing Post "Prominent, headway 3f out, chased leader over 1f out, stayed on to lead near finish (op 4-1) "
Ok last but not least. A winner tonight, 19th March. Unlimited (5) ridden by J-P Guillambert in the 19:50 at Wolverhampton (A.W.). 7f 32y a Selling Stakes (Class 6) (4YO plus) An easy race to describe. One furlong to go Unlimited and Guillambert just took off and left the others standing. Still accelerating as they crossed the line. Well done horse and rider! To watch the race please click here. (please note this requires a free 'At The Races' account. If you do not have one you can sign in using the email address carrots@stables.com and use the password racehorse): S
Racing post "Held up in touch, headway on inner over 2f out, led over 1f out, ridden clear inside final furlong (op 10-1) "t
I do have a lot of catching up to do. This week we have had four winners. So I will shut up (can you shut up typing?) and tell you about them.
First of the week was Carr Hall ridden by Luke Morris on Wednesday March 16th at Kempton Park 18:20. A Handicap race. £2250 added, 4yo plus, 1m 2f, Class 6, £1535 penalty, 13 ran. Now I saw this horse on the gallops last Tuesday and I was impressed. But it all depended on his draw at Kempton, and it looks like he got a good one. It is generally considered the high draws have an advantage at Kempton, when it is over 5f. Three horses crossed the line together. Carr Hall in the middle. From where I was sitting I could not decide who had got it but the photo finish said Carr Hall the winner. I for one am not going to argue with them! Watch the video and see if you can tell who had won. Click here to watch the race. Sporting life said " in touch, ridden and headway to chase leaders over 1f out, stayed on to lead final 50 yards, just held on opened 16/1 touched 16/1 " Racing Post "Tracked leaders, ridden over 1f out, kept on to lead final 75yds, just held on, all out (op 16-1) "
Next we had Gouranga. Gouranga did not look the happiest of horses the last time she ran at Sedgefield. I asked staff at the stables why they thought she underperformed and opinions were that it was either the long trip, some horses don't travel well or it could have been she did not get on with the Jockey. Your opinion is as valid as mine! But the girl 'dun good' at Towcester on Thursday March 17. The 17:35 a Conditional Jockeys' Handicap Hurdle. £2500 added, 4yo plus, 2m 3f 110y, Class 5, £1626 penalty, 9 ran. Going: Good to Soft, Good in places. Ridden by Robert Kirk. Well what a great race! Right from the start Gouranga challenged the leaders and was never further back than third. Three from home they quickened the pace and started to leave the rest behind. By the final furlong marker it was virtually a two horse race and Gouranga was accelerating. Gouranga crossed the finish line and made it look easy. Good riding by Robert Kirk and very good jumping from Gouranga. Enjoy the race by clicking here to watch it. (please note this requires a free 'At The Races' account. If you do not have one you can sign in using the email address carrots@stables.com and use the password racehorse)
Racing Post said "Mostly chased leader, ridden to lead after 3 out, clear next, stayed on well (op 13-2 tchd 6-1)"
Winner number three. Friday March 18. Wolverhampton 19:20. A Handicap (Div 2) £2000 added, 4yo plus, 1m 141y, Class 6, £1365 penalty, 10 ran. Going: Standard. Surface: Polytrack. Grey Boy ridden by stable jockey George Downing. George and Grey Boy started to make their move coming around the final bend. Keeping up with the leader they chased them down and snatched victory in the last yard or so. Bet it felt good George! Well done. To watch the race please click here. (please note this requires a free 'At The Races' account. If you do not have one you can sign in using the email address carrots@stables.com and use the password racehorse) Racing Post "Prominent, headway 3f out, chased leader over 1f out, stayed on to lead near finish (op 4-1) "
Ok last but not least. A winner tonight, 19th March. Unlimited (5) ridden by J-P Guillambert in the 19:50 at Wolverhampton (A.W.). 7f 32y a Selling Stakes (Class 6) (4YO plus) An easy race to describe. One furlong to go Unlimited and Guillambert just took off and left the others standing. Still accelerating as they crossed the line. Well done horse and rider! To watch the race please click here. (please note this requires a free 'At The Races' account. If you do not have one you can sign in using the email address carrots@stables.com and use the password racehorse): S
Racing post "Held up in touch, headway on inner over 2f out, led over 1f out, ridden clear inside final furlong (op 10-1) "t
24th March
Another winner! Yesterday, Wednesday March 23. Kempton Park 21:20 a Handicap £2250 added, 4yo plus, 7f, Class 7, £1535 penalty, 14 ran. Going: Standard. Surface: Polytrack. Cane Cat ridden by Luke Morris. Out of the gate Cane Cat just wanted to get going and Luke Morris knew better and held her back, strong arms these jockeys have. As they came around the final bend and into the home straight Cane Cat sat in the middle. If you watch the video look for the red cap and black top. From the video you can see that Luke looks straight ahead at a gap forming. The horses thin out and suddenly Cane Cat is on the outside. Luke puts his hands up the horses neck and begins to push hard. Letting Cane Cat go. This horse has lots of pent up energy and you can see she wanted to race. One furlong to go and she had a few places to catch up and the ones in front were not going to make it easy. They too were going flat out. Right up till the last few yards she lay second then with the winning post a breath away she got her nose in front and thats how she won it, by a nose. Her first win and no doubt her connections would have been thrilled. A good tactical ride by Luke Morris and a strong finish from Cane Cat. Sporting Life " mid-division, headway over 1f out, led inside final furlong, held on opened 14/1 touched 16/1 " To watch the race click here.
I am hoping to get to the stables this morning. I will give Cane Cat a polo and a pat (carefully).
Another winner! Yesterday, Wednesday March 23. Kempton Park 21:20 a Handicap £2250 added, 4yo plus, 7f, Class 7, £1535 penalty, 14 ran. Going: Standard. Surface: Polytrack. Cane Cat ridden by Luke Morris. Out of the gate Cane Cat just wanted to get going and Luke Morris knew better and held her back, strong arms these jockeys have. As they came around the final bend and into the home straight Cane Cat sat in the middle. If you watch the video look for the red cap and black top. From the video you can see that Luke looks straight ahead at a gap forming. The horses thin out and suddenly Cane Cat is on the outside. Luke puts his hands up the horses neck and begins to push hard. Letting Cane Cat go. This horse has lots of pent up energy and you can see she wanted to race. One furlong to go and she had a few places to catch up and the ones in front were not going to make it easy. They too were going flat out. Right up till the last few yards she lay second then with the winning post a breath away she got her nose in front and thats how she won it, by a nose. Her first win and no doubt her connections would have been thrilled. A good tactical ride by Luke Morris and a strong finish from Cane Cat. Sporting Life " mid-division, headway over 1f out, led inside final furlong, held on opened 14/1 touched 16/1 " To watch the race click here.
I am hoping to get to the stables this morning. I will give Cane Cat a polo and a pat (carefully).
Cane Cat this morning, just before she went out.
25th March.
Another day another winner. Thursday March 24 at Kempton Park in the 17:40. A Claiming Stakes,
£2250 added, 3yo only, 1m, Class 6, £1535 penalty, 7 ran. Going: Standard. Surface: Polytrack. Malice Or Mischief (IRE) ridden by Neil Callan. At the three furlong marker M or M lay in third. Coming up to the two furlong marker Neil began to push Malice or Mischief and they over took the horse that lay second. Final furlong. Neil Callan and Malice or Mischief really began to push it. But the leader was having non of it and pushed back. They raced head to head towards the line. Neither horse giving ground. The final yards ticked by and still no gap between them. Both horses crossed the line together. But had they done it? Of course they had! Malice or Mischief must have got it on the nod because it was so close. Well done Neil Callan and Malice or Mischief. Sporting Life said "tracked leaders, took keen hold, pushed up to challenge over 1f out, upsides leader inside final furlong, led towards finish opened 7/4 touched 9/4 " To watch the race please click here.
Another day another winner. Thursday March 24 at Kempton Park in the 17:40. A Claiming Stakes,
£2250 added, 3yo only, 1m, Class 6, £1535 penalty, 7 ran. Going: Standard. Surface: Polytrack. Malice Or Mischief (IRE) ridden by Neil Callan. At the three furlong marker M or M lay in third. Coming up to the two furlong marker Neil began to push Malice or Mischief and they over took the horse that lay second. Final furlong. Neil Callan and Malice or Mischief really began to push it. But the leader was having non of it and pushed back. They raced head to head towards the line. Neither horse giving ground. The final yards ticked by and still no gap between them. Both horses crossed the line together. But had they done it? Of course they had! Malice or Mischief must have got it on the nod because it was so close. Well done Neil Callan and Malice or Mischief. Sporting Life said "tracked leaders, took keen hold, pushed up to challenge over 1f out, upsides leader inside final furlong, led towards finish opened 7/4 touched 9/4 " To watch the race please click here.
31st March.
A double! Our first winner on Wednesday March 30 at Wolverhampton in the 18:00. Dijarvo ridden by Liam Jones. It was a Maiden Auction Stakes £3000 added, 2yo only, 5f 20y, Class 5, £1943 penalty, 7 ran, Polytrack. Going; Standard. Coming around the final bend Dijarvo was boxed in. Liam took a risk and took Dijarvo wide. The other horses pushed him across even further and Dijarvo ended up three quarters of the way across. This tactic did not work, in fact it seemed to spur Dijarvo on. With a great turn of speed they sped to the front and kept moving faster till they finally crossed the line deserving winners. Well done horse and rider. Sporting Life said "tracked leaders in 3rd, ridden and carried wide well over 1f out, led final furlong, kept on well opened 9/2 touched 9/2 " To watch the race please click here. (please note this requires a free 'At The Races' account. If you do not have one you can sign in using the email address carrots@stables.com and use the password racehorse)
Then our second winner on of the day, again, at Wolverhampton in the 18:30. A Selling Stakes
£2250 added, 4yo plus, 1m 5f 194y, Class 6, £1535 penalty, 5 ran. Going: Standard. Surface: Polytrack.
Acropolis (IRE) ridden by Luke Morris. There is not much to tell really about this race. Coming around the final bend Acropolis was comfortably in the lead and the horses behind proving not much of a threat. However there was a loose horse to contend with and it insisted riding alongside. The loose horse gradually pushed Acropolis over but fortunately it did not alter the result. Acropolis and Luke Morris crossed the line some 5 lengths ahead of the rest. Sporting Life said " tracked leaders early, soon settled in rear, in touch, went 2nd over 5f out, led on bit over 2f out, shaken up to go clear over 1f out, eased inside final furlong opened 11/1 touched 12/1 " To watch the race please click here. (please note this requires a free 'At The Races' account. If you do not have one you can sign in using the email address carrots@stables.com and use the password racehorse)
A double! Our first winner on Wednesday March 30 at Wolverhampton in the 18:00. Dijarvo ridden by Liam Jones. It was a Maiden Auction Stakes £3000 added, 2yo only, 5f 20y, Class 5, £1943 penalty, 7 ran, Polytrack. Going; Standard. Coming around the final bend Dijarvo was boxed in. Liam took a risk and took Dijarvo wide. The other horses pushed him across even further and Dijarvo ended up three quarters of the way across. This tactic did not work, in fact it seemed to spur Dijarvo on. With a great turn of speed they sped to the front and kept moving faster till they finally crossed the line deserving winners. Well done horse and rider. Sporting Life said "tracked leaders in 3rd, ridden and carried wide well over 1f out, led final furlong, kept on well opened 9/2 touched 9/2 " To watch the race please click here. (please note this requires a free 'At The Races' account. If you do not have one you can sign in using the email address carrots@stables.com and use the password racehorse)
Then our second winner on of the day, again, at Wolverhampton in the 18:30. A Selling Stakes
£2250 added, 4yo plus, 1m 5f 194y, Class 6, £1535 penalty, 5 ran. Going: Standard. Surface: Polytrack.
Acropolis (IRE) ridden by Luke Morris. There is not much to tell really about this race. Coming around the final bend Acropolis was comfortably in the lead and the horses behind proving not much of a threat. However there was a loose horse to contend with and it insisted riding alongside. The loose horse gradually pushed Acropolis over but fortunately it did not alter the result. Acropolis and Luke Morris crossed the line some 5 lengths ahead of the rest. Sporting Life said " tracked leaders early, soon settled in rear, in touch, went 2nd over 5f out, led on bit over 2f out, shaken up to go clear over 1f out, eased inside final furlong opened 11/1 touched 12/1 " To watch the race please click here. (please note this requires a free 'At The Races' account. If you do not have one you can sign in using the email address carrots@stables.com and use the password racehorse)
1st April
I am pleased to announce a new sponsor for this webpage. Horseydent. A great product that has been tried on great well know horses such as Rocking who as you probably know came first in the nursery stakes. Dark who had an unexpected win only last week, kept that talent secret. After racing at Doncaster last week Gift was due to do a photo shoot for us but just couldn't get a look in.
So take a look at their new product
Click on this line to go straight to the webpage.
I am pleased to announce a new sponsor for this webpage. Horseydent. A great product that has been tried on great well know horses such as Rocking who as you probably know came first in the nursery stakes. Dark who had an unexpected win only last week, kept that talent secret. After racing at Doncaster last week Gift was due to do a photo shoot for us but just couldn't get a look in.
So take a look at their new product
Click on this line to go straight to the webpage.
2nd April
As I am sure you will have guessed yesterdays little article was an April Fool's joke! Of course you did not fall for false teeth for horses! And no one would surely believe in horses named ... Rocking? Dark? or Gifted? Anyone telephoning the number and asking for a Mr. C Lion at Bristol Zoo would have got the message anyway. Hope you enjoyed as much as I. Gave me a few chuckles trying to work out the details.
I did my little trip to the stables yesterday and once again everyone was very busy. One of the stable girls was kind enough to give me a memory stick with lots of photo's on. More on that later.
As I am sure you will have guessed yesterdays little article was an April Fool's joke! Of course you did not fall for false teeth for horses! And no one would surely believe in horses named ... Rocking? Dark? or Gifted? Anyone telephoning the number and asking for a Mr. C Lion at Bristol Zoo would have got the message anyway. Hope you enjoyed as much as I. Gave me a few chuckles trying to work out the details.
I did my little trip to the stables yesterday and once again everyone was very busy. One of the stable girls was kind enough to give me a memory stick with lots of photo's on. More on that later.
7th April.
Another week another winner. Wednesday April 6. Lingfield Park 14:30 a Claiming Stakes.
£2250 added, 3yo plus, 7f, Class 6, £1535 penalty, 6 ran. Going: Standard. Surface: Polytrack. The horse Maze ridden by Neil Callan. Maze took the lead early on and kept it despite several unsuccessful challenges. Well paced into the final furlong Maze just had the edge and crossed the line a winner. Racing post said " Took keen hold, chased leader until led 5f out, made rest, quickened over 2f out, driven entering final furlong, stayed on well (op 3-1) " To watch the race please click here. (please note this requires a free 'At The Races' account. If you do not have one you can sign in using the email address carrots@stables.com and use the password racehorse)
Another week another winner. Wednesday April 6. Lingfield Park 14:30 a Claiming Stakes.
£2250 added, 3yo plus, 7f, Class 6, £1535 penalty, 6 ran. Going: Standard. Surface: Polytrack. The horse Maze ridden by Neil Callan. Maze took the lead early on and kept it despite several unsuccessful challenges. Well paced into the final furlong Maze just had the edge and crossed the line a winner. Racing post said " Took keen hold, chased leader until led 5f out, made rest, quickened over 2f out, driven entering final furlong, stayed on well (op 3-1) " To watch the race please click here. (please note this requires a free 'At The Races' account. If you do not have one you can sign in using the email address carrots@stables.com and use the password racehorse)
17th April.
Sorry. Been so busy have not had the chance to get to the stables this week. But in my defence I have just put up a new horses in training list. Click here. There is also a permanent link on the 'office' Page.
Being a very busy stables there will always be additional horses in yard and some that have gone for a rest.
Right off to the races now. Sun is shining, reward polo mints in pocket ( just in case).
Sorry. Been so busy have not had the chance to get to the stables this week. But in my defence I have just put up a new horses in training list. Click here. There is also a permanent link on the 'office' Page.
Being a very busy stables there will always be additional horses in yard and some that have gone for a rest.
Right off to the races now. Sun is shining, reward polo mints in pocket ( just in case).
21st April.
A winner yesterday. Wednesday April 20. Southwell 15:20 a Handicap (Div 2) £2000 added, 4yo plus, 7f, Class 6, £1365 penalty, 10 ran. Going: Standard. Surface: Fibresand. Bold Diva ridden by Luke Morris. Did not get off to a good start roughly 7th or 8th approaching the 3 furlong marker. But as they passed the marker Luke got Bold Diva lined up, found a gap and started to make a move on the leaders. By the two furlong marker Bold Diva had worked her way to the front and started to make all for the line. After the last furlong marker Luke Morris had his hands up Bold Diva's neck and was still pushing hard. They crossed the finishing post victorious leaving the rest of the pack trailing behind. Another good race in the bag for the stables, the connections and Jockey. Sporting Life said " held up, headway over 2f out, ridden to lead over 1f out, driven out (finished 4th, disqualified and placed last, failed to weigh-in) opened 11/4 touched 11/4 " To watch the race please click here. (please note this requires a free 'At The Races' account. If you do not have one you can sign in using the email address carrots@stables.com and use the password racehorse)
A winner yesterday. Wednesday April 20. Southwell 15:20 a Handicap (Div 2) £2000 added, 4yo plus, 7f, Class 6, £1365 penalty, 10 ran. Going: Standard. Surface: Fibresand. Bold Diva ridden by Luke Morris. Did not get off to a good start roughly 7th or 8th approaching the 3 furlong marker. But as they passed the marker Luke got Bold Diva lined up, found a gap and started to make a move on the leaders. By the two furlong marker Bold Diva had worked her way to the front and started to make all for the line. After the last furlong marker Luke Morris had his hands up Bold Diva's neck and was still pushing hard. They crossed the finishing post victorious leaving the rest of the pack trailing behind. Another good race in the bag for the stables, the connections and Jockey. Sporting Life said " held up, headway over 2f out, ridden to lead over 1f out, driven out (finished 4th, disqualified and placed last, failed to weigh-in) opened 11/4 touched 11/4 " To watch the race please click here. (please note this requires a free 'At The Races' account. If you do not have one you can sign in using the email address carrots@stables.com and use the password racehorse)
2nd May.
So much to catch up on. Been so busy arranging the Royal Wedding etc that I simply did not have the time to keep the webpage up to date. But now the happy couple have gone home and I have seen the various Royal Families and dignitaries off I can now catch up at last. Lots to tell too!
Lots of winners.
Thursday April 28 at Bath in the 14:10 a Handicap. £2750 added, 4yo plus, 1m 5y, Class 6, £1781 penalty, 11 ran. Going: Firm. Surface: Turf. Grey Boy (GER) 9-1 ridden by George Downing (7). Grey Boy and George Downing did not get off to a great start but they were soon racing on the rail. By the first corner they were well behind with a great distance to shorten. Coming up the home straight George took Grey boy wide and began to make all towards the leaders. With less than half a furlong to go Grey Boy had taken the lead but they were not going to make it easy for him. A line of three made for the line but Grey Boy and George Downing got the nose in front and brought home a win. Good ride! At The Races said " steadied start, soon switched left, progress on inner to mid-division halfway, switched right 3f out, headway over 1f out, ridden to lead inside final furlong, stayed on
" To watch the race please click here. (please note this requires a free 'At The Races' account. If you do not have one you can sign in using the email address carrots@stables.com and use the password racehorse) Those nice people at www.thejockey.co.uk have sent me some photos of this race. They are at the foot of this write up. Enjoy!
Next up Friday April 29 the 19:45 a Handicap Chase from Bangor-On-Dee. £7000 added, 5yo plus, 2m 4f 110y, Class 3, £4436 penalty, 5 ran. Going: Good, Good to Firm in places. Chicago Alley 10-2 ridden by stable jockey Lee Edwards (3). Coming up to the second last Chicago Alley and Lee Edwards were well clear of the pack. Jumping the final fence Lee took it slightly wrong but luckily nothing terrible happened. They were miles in front of everyone else, at least 20+ lengths, not a chance of anyone catching them after the last fence Chicago Alley and Lee Edwards took the race. No doubt the handicapper will be taking a interest after such a convincing win. Well done Lee Edwards and Chicago Alley. To watch the race please click here. Sporting Life "took keen hold, tracked leaders, not fluent 6th, led after 3 out, soon clear, hit last, very easily opened 7/1 touched 15/2 "
And they keep coming......... Monday May 2. Warwick 14:10. An Apprentice Handicap £3000 added, 4yo plus, 1m 22y, Class 6, £2047 penalty, 8 ran. Going: Good to Firm, Firm in places (Watered) Surface: Turf. Aggbag ridden by Adam Beschizza. Not a great paced race to begin with. It felt like everyone was waiting for someone else to make a break and set the pace. At the final furlong marker Adam had got Aggbag placed well and picked up the pace. By the final 1/2 furlong Aggbag proved superior to the rest and strove for the line, winning in a positive fashion. Well done to the both of them. To watch the race please click here.
This is proving to be a marathon in itself. One more winner. Monday May 2. Chepstow 16:15. A Handicap
£6000 added, 3yo only, 1m 14y, Class 4, £3886 penalty, 5 ran. Going: Good to Firm. Surface: Turf. The undulating course at Chepstow does not suit every horse but it did for Malice Or Mischief ridden by David Probert. This was basically a 'straight' race, straight as in direction that is. No bends. With only 5 runners Malice or Mischief lay towards the back of the runners but approaching the 3rd furlong everyone made their move. Two furlongs to go M or M just taking the lead. Final furlong M or M two lengths in front and accelerating. Malice or Mischief won the race easily much to the delight of the crowd and no doubt the connections and yard. Well done to the both of them. To watch the race please click here. (please note this requires a free 'At The Races' account. If you do not have one you can sign in using the email address carrots@stables.com and use the password racehorse)
So much to catch up on. Been so busy arranging the Royal Wedding etc that I simply did not have the time to keep the webpage up to date. But now the happy couple have gone home and I have seen the various Royal Families and dignitaries off I can now catch up at last. Lots to tell too!
Lots of winners.
Thursday April 28 at Bath in the 14:10 a Handicap. £2750 added, 4yo plus, 1m 5y, Class 6, £1781 penalty, 11 ran. Going: Firm. Surface: Turf. Grey Boy (GER) 9-1 ridden by George Downing (7). Grey Boy and George Downing did not get off to a great start but they were soon racing on the rail. By the first corner they were well behind with a great distance to shorten. Coming up the home straight George took Grey boy wide and began to make all towards the leaders. With less than half a furlong to go Grey Boy had taken the lead but they were not going to make it easy for him. A line of three made for the line but Grey Boy and George Downing got the nose in front and brought home a win. Good ride! At The Races said " steadied start, soon switched left, progress on inner to mid-division halfway, switched right 3f out, headway over 1f out, ridden to lead inside final furlong, stayed on
" To watch the race please click here. (please note this requires a free 'At The Races' account. If you do not have one you can sign in using the email address carrots@stables.com and use the password racehorse) Those nice people at www.thejockey.co.uk have sent me some photos of this race. They are at the foot of this write up. Enjoy!
Next up Friday April 29 the 19:45 a Handicap Chase from Bangor-On-Dee. £7000 added, 5yo plus, 2m 4f 110y, Class 3, £4436 penalty, 5 ran. Going: Good, Good to Firm in places. Chicago Alley 10-2 ridden by stable jockey Lee Edwards (3). Coming up to the second last Chicago Alley and Lee Edwards were well clear of the pack. Jumping the final fence Lee took it slightly wrong but luckily nothing terrible happened. They were miles in front of everyone else, at least 20+ lengths, not a chance of anyone catching them after the last fence Chicago Alley and Lee Edwards took the race. No doubt the handicapper will be taking a interest after such a convincing win. Well done Lee Edwards and Chicago Alley. To watch the race please click here. Sporting Life "took keen hold, tracked leaders, not fluent 6th, led after 3 out, soon clear, hit last, very easily opened 7/1 touched 15/2 "
And they keep coming......... Monday May 2. Warwick 14:10. An Apprentice Handicap £3000 added, 4yo plus, 1m 22y, Class 6, £2047 penalty, 8 ran. Going: Good to Firm, Firm in places (Watered) Surface: Turf. Aggbag ridden by Adam Beschizza. Not a great paced race to begin with. It felt like everyone was waiting for someone else to make a break and set the pace. At the final furlong marker Adam had got Aggbag placed well and picked up the pace. By the final 1/2 furlong Aggbag proved superior to the rest and strove for the line, winning in a positive fashion. Well done to the both of them. To watch the race please click here.
This is proving to be a marathon in itself. One more winner. Monday May 2. Chepstow 16:15. A Handicap
£6000 added, 3yo only, 1m 14y, Class 4, £3886 penalty, 5 ran. Going: Good to Firm. Surface: Turf. The undulating course at Chepstow does not suit every horse but it did for Malice Or Mischief ridden by David Probert. This was basically a 'straight' race, straight as in direction that is. No bends. With only 5 runners Malice or Mischief lay towards the back of the runners but approaching the 3rd furlong everyone made their move. Two furlongs to go M or M just taking the lead. Final furlong M or M two lengths in front and accelerating. Malice or Mischief won the race easily much to the delight of the crowd and no doubt the connections and yard. Well done to the both of them. To watch the race please click here. (please note this requires a free 'At The Races' account. If you do not have one you can sign in using the email address carrots@stables.com and use the password racehorse)
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.JPG "2.10 GREY BOY (1)")
.JPG "2.10 GREY BOY (2)")
.JPG "2.10 GREY BOY (3)")
.JPG "2.10 GREY BOY (4)")
.JPG "2.10 GREY BOY (5)")
.JPG "2.10 GREY BOY (6)")
.JPG "2.10 GREY BOY (7)")
.JPG "2.10 GREY BOY (8)")
Those nice people at www.thejockey.co.uk have been kind enough to send me some photo's of Grey Boy winning at Bath, see above. They are the official photographer at some of the UK's top racecourses. So if you have had a horse running at one of the courses they cover no doubt they have photographed it. Worth taking a look anyway.
To see a larger image just click on the photo.
To see a larger image just click on the photo.
11th May.
Another week another winner. Tuesday May 10 at Warwick 17:40. A Handicap £3000 added, 4yo plus, 1m 2f 188y, Class 6, £2047 penalty, 17 ran. Going: Good, Good to Firm in places. Surface: Turf. Lytham (IRE) ridden by A Kirby. Adam Kirby and Lytham had a lot of competition non of which was going to make it easy for them. Mid division mid way no gaps appearing but in the final furlong they did manage to get their nose in front. Still being jostled for position they managed to hold the lead and crossed the line 1/2 a length in front of their nearest rival. A very close run race. Well done to Lytham and Adam Kirby. Lythams first win at Warwick. Sporting Life said "mid-division, steady headway 4f out, ridden to lead over 1f out, edged right inside final furlong, almost joined when edged left final 100 yards, held on, all out opened 12/1 " To watch the race please click here.
I have been very lucky in that one of the staff at the stables, Lizelle, has taken some photo's for me of the staff and some of the horses. I have put a new album up in the photo section. Once the album is open if you click the small arrow in the top right of the page it will give you a slide show, if you want one of course. Thank you Lizelle. I got there eventually!!
Another week another winner. Tuesday May 10 at Warwick 17:40. A Handicap £3000 added, 4yo plus, 1m 2f 188y, Class 6, £2047 penalty, 17 ran. Going: Good, Good to Firm in places. Surface: Turf. Lytham (IRE) ridden by A Kirby. Adam Kirby and Lytham had a lot of competition non of which was going to make it easy for them. Mid division mid way no gaps appearing but in the final furlong they did manage to get their nose in front. Still being jostled for position they managed to hold the lead and crossed the line 1/2 a length in front of their nearest rival. A very close run race. Well done to Lytham and Adam Kirby. Lythams first win at Warwick. Sporting Life said "mid-division, steady headway 4f out, ridden to lead over 1f out, edged right inside final furlong, almost joined when edged left final 100 yards, held on, all out opened 12/1 " To watch the race please click here.
I have been very lucky in that one of the staff at the stables, Lizelle, has taken some photo's for me of the staff and some of the horses. I have put a new album up in the photo section. Once the album is open if you click the small arrow in the top right of the page it will give you a slide show, if you want one of course. Thank you Lizelle. I got there eventually!!
21st May.
Once again.....another week and another winner. The 15:20 Yarmouth, 20 May. 1m 3y a Handicap (Class 6) (4YO plus) 11 ran, Good to Firm. Cane Cat ridden by Liam Jones. Well if you were watching the race right up to about the last furlong marker you would not have rated Cane Cat's chances. Literally at the back of the pack and well and truly blocked. But as other horses tired and the field started to spread Cane Cat and Liam found the gaps and took advantage of them. You can say what you like about this horse, and a lot do, but you have got to give it credit for determination. Cane Cat came from the back to the front in the last few yards and got her nose in front. Still accelerating she crossed the line and looked like she could keep going for another few furlongs. I think if she had left the gate a little better and not got blocked in she would have won this by quite a few lengths. So Well done Cane Cat, Liam Jones and the connections. I shall be giving her a pat and a carrot (carefully) when I visit the stables next week. Sporting Life said " hampered start in rear, ridden over 2f out, headway over 1f out, led near finish " To watch the race please click here. (please note this requires a free 'At The Races' account. If you do not have one you can sign in using the email address carrots@stables.com and use the password racehorse). If you watch the race look for the very last horse at the start of the race, the one being chased by the volvo!
Once again.....another week and another winner. The 15:20 Yarmouth, 20 May. 1m 3y a Handicap (Class 6) (4YO plus) 11 ran, Good to Firm. Cane Cat ridden by Liam Jones. Well if you were watching the race right up to about the last furlong marker you would not have rated Cane Cat's chances. Literally at the back of the pack and well and truly blocked. But as other horses tired and the field started to spread Cane Cat and Liam found the gaps and took advantage of them. You can say what you like about this horse, and a lot do, but you have got to give it credit for determination. Cane Cat came from the back to the front in the last few yards and got her nose in front. Still accelerating she crossed the line and looked like she could keep going for another few furlongs. I think if she had left the gate a little better and not got blocked in she would have won this by quite a few lengths. So Well done Cane Cat, Liam Jones and the connections. I shall be giving her a pat and a carrot (carefully) when I visit the stables next week. Sporting Life said " hampered start in rear, ridden over 2f out, headway over 1f out, led near finish " To watch the race please click here. (please note this requires a free 'At The Races' account. If you do not have one you can sign in using the email address carrots@stables.com and use the password racehorse). If you watch the race look for the very last horse at the start of the race, the one being chased by the volvo!
26th May
I had an email on Monday asking me to please visit the stables as the visits usually produced winners. Of course this is not true it's the hard work of the staff and eventually the Jockey that produces the winners. But any excuse to visit the horses, not that I need an excuse. So I visited yesterday, Wednesday. First thing I noticed on my arrival was a new tarmac road. The tarmac also extended in to one of the stable blocks and from what I can see they have done a pretty decent job. Hence the photo on the right. I am sure the horses would prefer mud but I think its a definite improvement. There are always improvements going on in the yard. Some subtle and some more obvious like this. Anyway polo's given out and I kept my promise and gave Cane Cat her reward for her excellent win last week. I still have all my fingers, just.
I had an email on Monday asking me to please visit the stables as the visits usually produced winners. Of course this is not true it's the hard work of the staff and eventually the Jockey that produces the winners. But any excuse to visit the horses, not that I need an excuse. So I visited yesterday, Wednesday. First thing I noticed on my arrival was a new tarmac road. The tarmac also extended in to one of the stable blocks and from what I can see they have done a pretty decent job. Hence the photo on the right. I am sure the horses would prefer mud but I think its a definite improvement. There are always improvements going on in the yard. Some subtle and some more obvious like this. Anyway polo's given out and I kept my promise and gave Cane Cat her reward for her excellent win last week. I still have all my fingers, just.
A winner. Wednesday May 25. Ayr 16:55. A Handicap. £2500 added, 4yo plus, 1m 7f, Class 6, £1706 penalty, 8 ran. Going: Good to Soft, Soft in places. Surface: Turf. Blazing Buck ridden by F Norton.
Going past the winning post for the first time Blazing Buck lay in 6th position and in no rush at this point to get to the front. Coming around the first bend Franny did gee Blazing Buck up a little. Coming around the final turn they changed gear and rapidly started their move up, though the leader at the time was also pulling quickly away. Less than a furlong later just as they passed the 3 marker Blazing Buck had taken the lead! Two furlongs to go and they were now at least two lengths in front and still making all for the line. But it was not in the bag...... yet. A serious challenger appeared from the nearside....... would they make it? (you already know the answer) A couple of inches in front Blazing Buck and Franny Norton crossed the line winners. The nearest horse behind those two was trailing 17, yes 17 lengths behind. Well done horse and rider. To watch a video of the race please click here. Sporting Life " held up, progress 11f out, headway on outer to lead over 2f out, soon 3 lengths clear, found extra when pressed inside final furlong, hung right near finish opened 5/1 £2100-£300 "
Going past the winning post for the first time Blazing Buck lay in 6th position and in no rush at this point to get to the front. Coming around the first bend Franny did gee Blazing Buck up a little. Coming around the final turn they changed gear and rapidly started their move up, though the leader at the time was also pulling quickly away. Less than a furlong later just as they passed the 3 marker Blazing Buck had taken the lead! Two furlongs to go and they were now at least two lengths in front and still making all for the line. But it was not in the bag...... yet. A serious challenger appeared from the nearside....... would they make it? (you already know the answer) A couple of inches in front Blazing Buck and Franny Norton crossed the line winners. The nearest horse behind those two was trailing 17, yes 17 lengths behind. Well done horse and rider. To watch a video of the race please click here. Sporting Life " held up, progress 11f out, headway on outer to lead over 2f out, soon 3 lengths clear, found extra when pressed inside final furlong, hung right near finish opened 5/1 £2100-£300 "
31st May.
Good start to a new week. Two winners.
First winner on Monday May 30 at Towcester 14:50. A Claiming Hurdle £3000 added, 4yo plus, 2m, Class 5, £1952 penalty, 8 ran. Going: Good to Firm. Le Corvee (IRE) ridden by Lee Edwards. Coming up to the final two furlong marker it was basically a two horse race, Le Corvee being one of the two. Lee did not jump the next jump too well (always blame the jockey) and it looked like they may loose it. But at the final jump Lee Corvee jumped well (always praise the horse) and got a slight lead. Thats all they needed. Lee Corvee and Lee Edwards made all for the line and crossed it victorious. Well done horse and pilot. At The Races said "always prominent, led after 3 out, mistake next, driven out " To watch the race please click here. (please note this requires a free 'At The Races' account. If you do not have one you can sign in using the email address carrots@stables.com and use the password racehorse).
Our next winner. Monday May 30 at Leicester 16:25. A Handicap £3500 added, 4yo plus, 1m 1f 218y, Class 5, £2267 penalty, 6 ran. Going: Good, Good to Firm in places. Surface: Turf Zafranagar (IRE) 9-1 ridden by George Downing (7). At the two furlong marker George and Zafranagar were against the fence and not really making much headway. Last furlong marker George sees a gap and Zafranagar surges forward. The pair made all for the line and won without any doubt at all. Well done to both of them. Sporting Life said " pulled hard in rear, headway on inside 2f out, not clear run over 1f out, switched left approaching final furlong, squezzed between horses entering final furlong, soon led, ran on opened 3/1 touched 10/3 " To watch the race please click here. (please note this requires a free 'At The Races' account. If you do not have one you can sign in using the email address carrots@stables.com and use the password racehorse).
Good start to a new week. Two winners.
First winner on Monday May 30 at Towcester 14:50. A Claiming Hurdle £3000 added, 4yo plus, 2m, Class 5, £1952 penalty, 8 ran. Going: Good to Firm. Le Corvee (IRE) ridden by Lee Edwards. Coming up to the final two furlong marker it was basically a two horse race, Le Corvee being one of the two. Lee did not jump the next jump too well (always blame the jockey) and it looked like they may loose it. But at the final jump Lee Corvee jumped well (always praise the horse) and got a slight lead. Thats all they needed. Lee Corvee and Lee Edwards made all for the line and crossed it victorious. Well done horse and pilot. At The Races said "always prominent, led after 3 out, mistake next, driven out " To watch the race please click here. (please note this requires a free 'At The Races' account. If you do not have one you can sign in using the email address carrots@stables.com and use the password racehorse).
Our next winner. Monday May 30 at Leicester 16:25. A Handicap £3500 added, 4yo plus, 1m 1f 218y, Class 5, £2267 penalty, 6 ran. Going: Good, Good to Firm in places. Surface: Turf Zafranagar (IRE) 9-1 ridden by George Downing (7). At the two furlong marker George and Zafranagar were against the fence and not really making much headway. Last furlong marker George sees a gap and Zafranagar surges forward. The pair made all for the line and won without any doubt at all. Well done to both of them. Sporting Life said " pulled hard in rear, headway on inside 2f out, not clear run over 1f out, switched left approaching final furlong, squezzed between horses entering final furlong, soon led, ran on opened 3/1 touched 10/3 " To watch the race please click here. (please note this requires a free 'At The Races' account. If you do not have one you can sign in using the email address carrots@stables.com and use the password racehorse).
10th June.
I made my trip to the stables yesterday. Arriving rather late most had there heads in buckets having their lunch, horses that is not the staff. :) But a few saw me arrive and wanted their treats. Those duly given out and a few necks scratched and patted I had a chance to chat. Being summer? a lot of staff were enjoying a break so the ones left behind have their work cut out to ensure everything is done. But all horses were exercised, fed etc and all were looking splendid in their summer coats.
Thursday June 9. Nottingham 17:40 a Handicap. £2500 added, 4yo plus, 1m 2f 50y, Class 6, £1619 penalty, 9 ran. Going: Good to Firm, Good in places. Surface: Turf. Cane Cat ridden by Liam Jones.
Cane Cat did not get off to a very good start. In fact for the first 30 seconds you could not even see her on the viewing screen as she was so far from the front. Coming around the bend at the far side and approaching the four furlong marker Cane Cat was making ground fast. One furlong later Liam had his head down and his hands up Cane Cat's neck pushing and it was if someone had thrown a switch. They surged forward, third, second, first all fell by the wayside as Cane Cat overtook them all. This seemed to wake up the rest of the horses as they began to challenge her lead. One horse drew neck and neck with Cane Cat but this mare was having non of it. She stretched her neck and crossed the line in her usual determined fashion. Well done Cane Cat and Liam Jones. To watch the race please click here. Sporting Life said " held up in 6th and off the pace, headway over 4f out, led inside final 4f, soon ridden along, stayed on under pressure inside final furlong opened 4/1 touched 5/1 £1500-£300 "
Footnote. By special request I have re-organised some of the buttons on the office page. Hope you find them a little easier to use.
I made my trip to the stables yesterday. Arriving rather late most had there heads in buckets having their lunch, horses that is not the staff. :) But a few saw me arrive and wanted their treats. Those duly given out and a few necks scratched and patted I had a chance to chat. Being summer? a lot of staff were enjoying a break so the ones left behind have their work cut out to ensure everything is done. But all horses were exercised, fed etc and all were looking splendid in their summer coats.
Thursday June 9. Nottingham 17:40 a Handicap. £2500 added, 4yo plus, 1m 2f 50y, Class 6, £1619 penalty, 9 ran. Going: Good to Firm, Good in places. Surface: Turf. Cane Cat ridden by Liam Jones.
Cane Cat did not get off to a very good start. In fact for the first 30 seconds you could not even see her on the viewing screen as she was so far from the front. Coming around the bend at the far side and approaching the four furlong marker Cane Cat was making ground fast. One furlong later Liam had his head down and his hands up Cane Cat's neck pushing and it was if someone had thrown a switch. They surged forward, third, second, first all fell by the wayside as Cane Cat overtook them all. This seemed to wake up the rest of the horses as they began to challenge her lead. One horse drew neck and neck with Cane Cat but this mare was having non of it. She stretched her neck and crossed the line in her usual determined fashion. Well done Cane Cat and Liam Jones. To watch the race please click here. Sporting Life said " held up in 6th and off the pace, headway over 4f out, led inside final 4f, soon ridden along, stayed on under pressure inside final furlong opened 4/1 touched 5/1 £1500-£300 "
Footnote. By special request I have re-organised some of the buttons on the office page. Hope you find them a little easier to use.
10th June.
No it isn't an error! Two posts in one day. Just heard the good news of the yards double win in France and a listed race at that. But not having seen the race I can only show you what the Racing Post has to say. Please click here to read their report. Another, short, comment in this in the news. Click here. and here.
Breeinginracing.com said " 1st Stakes Winner For Iceman Also in France overnight, deceased former UK Cheveley Park Stud stallion & 2nd-crop sire Iceman (Polar Falcon-Virtuous, by Exit To Nowhere) recorded his 1st stakes-winner when UK-bred filly Dijarvo (Iceman-Thicket, by Wolfhound) scored a 0.75-length victory in the 55,000 (A$75,000) Listed Prix La Fleche (1000m) for 2YOs at Maisons-Laffitte. Dijarvo (ridden by David Probert for trainer Tony Carroll) defeated fellow filly Ponte Vespucci (Anabaa-Porlezza, by Sicyos) & the colt Robert Le Diable (Dutch Art-Red Begonia, by Pivotal). Dijarvo was a £3,000 (A$4,600) yearling at the 2010 Doncaster Bloodstock November Sale; she now has 2 wins & 2 runners-up from 4 starts. Her sire Iceman (winner of the 2004 UK Gr2 Coventry Stakes) died as a 6YO in 2008 after standing that year at Cheveley for £5,000 (A$7,700). (Jun 10) "
Sorry to say I cannot find any video footage. If you know of any please email me editor@awcarroll.co.uk
Thanks.
No it isn't an error! Two posts in one day. Just heard the good news of the yards double win in France and a listed race at that. But not having seen the race I can only show you what the Racing Post has to say. Please click here to read their report. Another, short, comment in this in the news. Click here. and here.
Breeinginracing.com said " 1st Stakes Winner For Iceman Also in France overnight, deceased former UK Cheveley Park Stud stallion & 2nd-crop sire Iceman (Polar Falcon-Virtuous, by Exit To Nowhere) recorded his 1st stakes-winner when UK-bred filly Dijarvo (Iceman-Thicket, by Wolfhound) scored a 0.75-length victory in the 55,000 (A$75,000) Listed Prix La Fleche (1000m) for 2YOs at Maisons-Laffitte. Dijarvo (ridden by David Probert for trainer Tony Carroll) defeated fellow filly Ponte Vespucci (Anabaa-Porlezza, by Sicyos) & the colt Robert Le Diable (Dutch Art-Red Begonia, by Pivotal). Dijarvo was a £3,000 (A$4,600) yearling at the 2010 Doncaster Bloodstock November Sale; she now has 2 wins & 2 runners-up from 4 starts. Her sire Iceman (winner of the 2004 UK Gr2 Coventry Stakes) died as a 6YO in 2008 after standing that year at Cheveley for £5,000 (A$7,700). (Jun 10) "
Sorry to say I cannot find any video footage. If you know of any please email me editor@awcarroll.co.uk
Thanks.
28th June.
A couple of good wins last weekend, two exciting races worth watching.
Sunday June 26. Salisbury 15:35 a Seniors' Sprint Handicap. £7000 added, 6yo plus, 5f, Class 4, £4533 penalty, 7 ran. Going: Good to Firm (Good in places between 7f and 5f). Surface: Turf Maze ridden by Lucy Barry. From the gate you cannot really miss Maze as he is the back marker ridden in the middle of the course. With no horses around him Maze had a free run and in the last two furlongs Lucy and Maze took advantage of that beginning to gain ground on the pack. Last few yards to go and powering up towards the line went Maze overtaking all. Neck stretched and flat out Maze and Lucy Barry crossed the line in first place. Well done horse and rider! To watch the race please click here.
Our second win on Sunday this time at Uttoxeter 14:15. A Novices' Hurdle. £4400 added, 4yo plus, 2m, Class 4, £2862 penalty, 11 ran. Going: Good, Good to Firm in places. Starting off at a steady pace Layla's Dancer ridden by Wayne Hutchinson jumped the first nicely. In the middle of the pack Wayne took it steady letting others dictate the pace, still a long way to go. Settling into third position they went past the finish post for the first time. They continued at his pace until they got into the home straight. Three jumps from home Layla's Dancer lost a little ground after the jump but Wayne urged him on and the gap narrowed again. Two from home Wayne asked and Layla's Dancer gave and they went up to second place. Jumping the last it was now a two horse race. The heat and the pace now beginning to tell. Nose to nose with his nearest competitor they got closer and closer to the line. Layla's Dancer stretched just that little bit more and crossed the line a winner! To watch the race please click here. (please note this requires a free 'At The Races' account. If you do not have one you can sign in using the email address carrots@stables.com and use the password racehorse).
A couple of good wins last weekend, two exciting races worth watching.
Sunday June 26. Salisbury 15:35 a Seniors' Sprint Handicap. £7000 added, 6yo plus, 5f, Class 4, £4533 penalty, 7 ran. Going: Good to Firm (Good in places between 7f and 5f). Surface: Turf Maze ridden by Lucy Barry. From the gate you cannot really miss Maze as he is the back marker ridden in the middle of the course. With no horses around him Maze had a free run and in the last two furlongs Lucy and Maze took advantage of that beginning to gain ground on the pack. Last few yards to go and powering up towards the line went Maze overtaking all. Neck stretched and flat out Maze and Lucy Barry crossed the line in first place. Well done horse and rider! To watch the race please click here.
Our second win on Sunday this time at Uttoxeter 14:15. A Novices' Hurdle. £4400 added, 4yo plus, 2m, Class 4, £2862 penalty, 11 ran. Going: Good, Good to Firm in places. Starting off at a steady pace Layla's Dancer ridden by Wayne Hutchinson jumped the first nicely. In the middle of the pack Wayne took it steady letting others dictate the pace, still a long way to go. Settling into third position they went past the finish post for the first time. They continued at his pace until they got into the home straight. Three jumps from home Layla's Dancer lost a little ground after the jump but Wayne urged him on and the gap narrowed again. Two from home Wayne asked and Layla's Dancer gave and they went up to second place. Jumping the last it was now a two horse race. The heat and the pace now beginning to tell. Nose to nose with his nearest competitor they got closer and closer to the line. Layla's Dancer stretched just that little bit more and crossed the line a winner! To watch the race please click here. (please note this requires a free 'At The Races' account. If you do not have one you can sign in using the email address carrots@stables.com and use the password racehorse).
7th July
A winner yesterday. Wednesday July 6 Lingfield Park 15:00 - A Selling Stakes. £2500 added, 3yo plus, 1m 2f, Class 6, £1704 penalty, 6 ran. Going: Good to Firm (All Weather Standard). Surface: Turf. Country Road (IRE) 9-6 ridden by Adam Kirby. Country Road came out of the gate and quickly established second position. At the three furlong on the home straight Adam asked and Country Road gave. Starting to speed up and challenge the leader. By the final furlong marker Country Road had taken the lead and increased the pace. Country Road was challenged but managed to hold on going strongly for the line. Seconds later Country Road and Adam Kirby crossed the line winners. Well done to horse and rider. At the Races said " chased leader, ridden inside final 3f, driven to lead over 1f out, stayed on under presssure" Sporting Life said " chased leader, ridden inside final 3f, driven to lead over 1f out, stayed on under presssure opened 2/1 touched 2/1 " Do you think the same guy wrote both comments, they even have the same spelling mistake? To watch the race please click here. (please note this requires a free 'At The Races' account. If you do not have one you can sign in using the email address carrots@stables.com and use the password racehorse).
A winner yesterday. Wednesday July 6 Lingfield Park 15:00 - A Selling Stakes. £2500 added, 3yo plus, 1m 2f, Class 6, £1704 penalty, 6 ran. Going: Good to Firm (All Weather Standard). Surface: Turf. Country Road (IRE) 9-6 ridden by Adam Kirby. Country Road came out of the gate and quickly established second position. At the three furlong on the home straight Adam asked and Country Road gave. Starting to speed up and challenge the leader. By the final furlong marker Country Road had taken the lead and increased the pace. Country Road was challenged but managed to hold on going strongly for the line. Seconds later Country Road and Adam Kirby crossed the line winners. Well done to horse and rider. At the Races said " chased leader, ridden inside final 3f, driven to lead over 1f out, stayed on under presssure" Sporting Life said " chased leader, ridden inside final 3f, driven to lead over 1f out, stayed on under presssure opened 2/1 touched 2/1 " Do you think the same guy wrote both comments, they even have the same spelling mistake? To watch the race please click here. (please note this requires a free 'At The Races' account. If you do not have one you can sign in using the email address carrots@stables.com and use the password racehorse).
18th July.
Well I went down to the stables again and did my usual polo and carrot run. The horses are healthy but some of the staff are suffering the usual pulled thigh muscles or trodden foot. All in a days work if you are looking after horses. I am sure my empathy does not make it hurt less though.
Charlie Carroll has passed his driving test. Well done to him. Another milestone in the Carroll family.
A winner at the weekend. Sunday July 17 at Stratford in the 16:55. A Novices' Handicap Chase. £5000 added, 4yo plus, 2m 1f 110y, Class 4, £3249 penalty, 7 ran. Going: Good. Le Corvee (IRE) 11-11 ridden by Wayne Hutchinson. Lee Corvee was always in the front two or three and jumping the last it was virtually a two horse race. The others had dropped back not having the stamina to keep up. So the two raced for the line. Lee Corvee seemed as determined as Wayne Hutchinson not to let the other horse pass. Racing neck and neck for the finish. From somewhere deep down Lee Corvee got that little extra that makes all the difference. Pulled clear and crossed the line a winner. Sporting Life said " always prominent, led 8th, headed last, led again flat, driven out opened 11/2 touched 11/2 " If you would like to watch the race please click here. (please note this requires a free 'At The Races' account. If you do not have one you can sign in using the email address carrots@stables.com and use the password racehorse).
Well I went down to the stables again and did my usual polo and carrot run. The horses are healthy but some of the staff are suffering the usual pulled thigh muscles or trodden foot. All in a days work if you are looking after horses. I am sure my empathy does not make it hurt less though.
Charlie Carroll has passed his driving test. Well done to him. Another milestone in the Carroll family.
A winner at the weekend. Sunday July 17 at Stratford in the 16:55. A Novices' Handicap Chase. £5000 added, 4yo plus, 2m 1f 110y, Class 4, £3249 penalty, 7 ran. Going: Good. Le Corvee (IRE) 11-11 ridden by Wayne Hutchinson. Lee Corvee was always in the front two or three and jumping the last it was virtually a two horse race. The others had dropped back not having the stamina to keep up. So the two raced for the line. Lee Corvee seemed as determined as Wayne Hutchinson not to let the other horse pass. Racing neck and neck for the finish. From somewhere deep down Lee Corvee got that little extra that makes all the difference. Pulled clear and crossed the line a winner. Sporting Life said " always prominent, led 8th, headed last, led again flat, driven out opened 11/2 touched 11/2 " If you would like to watch the race please click here. (please note this requires a free 'At The Races' account. If you do not have one you can sign in using the email address carrots@stables.com and use the password racehorse).
24th July.
Another first past the post for the connections and yard. Friday July 22 at Chepstow in the 20:55. A Handicap £2800 added, 3yo plus, 2m 49y, Class 6, £1811 penalty, 12 ran. Going: Good to Soft, Good in places. Surface: Turf. Blazing Buck ( 9-7) with pilot Liam Jones . Blazing Buck took the lead right from the start at a steady pace. Halfway and Blazing Buck still in the lead. Liam not pushing just keeping him at the same rhythm, taking advantage of being at the front to pick the best ground. Coming out of the far side of the course the horses began to bunch with one or two looking to take over the lead. Just four furlongs to go and the pace quickened. Everyone now wanted to be in front. Three furlongs to go and Blazing Buck lost the lead for the first time. Two furlongs to go and Blazing Buck got the lead back... just. Horses now attacking from all sides, striving for that line. One furlong to go and Blazing Buck a good length in front but obviously tiring fast. Winning post in sight horse and jockey reached deep down and got that little bit extra that makes winners. Blazing Buck seemed to grow a couple of inches in length and with the new found energy they crossed the line winners. Sporting Life said "led, headed over 3f out, led again over 1f out, hard ridden, stayed on well opened 10/1 touched 11/1 " To watch the race please click here. (please note this requires a free 'At The Races' account. If you do not have one you can sign in using the email address carrots@stables.com and use the password racehorse).
Another first past the post for the connections and yard. Friday July 22 at Chepstow in the 20:55. A Handicap £2800 added, 3yo plus, 2m 49y, Class 6, £1811 penalty, 12 ran. Going: Good to Soft, Good in places. Surface: Turf. Blazing Buck ( 9-7) with pilot Liam Jones . Blazing Buck took the lead right from the start at a steady pace. Halfway and Blazing Buck still in the lead. Liam not pushing just keeping him at the same rhythm, taking advantage of being at the front to pick the best ground. Coming out of the far side of the course the horses began to bunch with one or two looking to take over the lead. Just four furlongs to go and the pace quickened. Everyone now wanted to be in front. Three furlongs to go and Blazing Buck lost the lead for the first time. Two furlongs to go and Blazing Buck got the lead back... just. Horses now attacking from all sides, striving for that line. One furlong to go and Blazing Buck a good length in front but obviously tiring fast. Winning post in sight horse and jockey reached deep down and got that little bit extra that makes winners. Blazing Buck seemed to grow a couple of inches in length and with the new found energy they crossed the line winners. Sporting Life said "led, headed over 3f out, led again over 1f out, hard ridden, stayed on well opened 10/1 touched 11/1 " To watch the race please click here. (please note this requires a free 'At The Races' account. If you do not have one you can sign in using the email address carrots@stables.com and use the password racehorse).
Those very nice people at www.thejockey.co.uk , official photographers at some of the uk's top racecourses, have kindly sent me some photographs of Blazing Bucks, and his lucky connections, win at Chepstow the other day. See article below. Take a look at their website you may find some pictures of your horses in there. Enjoy!
If you double click on the photo it will bring up a larger version.
If you double click on the photo it will bring up a larger version.
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.JPG "8.55 BLAZING BUCK (2)")
.JPG "8.55 BLAZING BUCK (3)")
.JPG "8.55 BLAZING BUCK (5)")
Friday July 29.
Bangor-on-Dee 14:45. Novices' Handicap Chase. £4000 added, 4yo plus, 2m 4f 110y, Class 4, £2599 penalty, 6 ran. Going: Good. Walls Way ridden by Lee Edwards. Nothing much happened in the first half of the race. Horses rode steady. A.P parted from his horse, Walls Way continued on. Four Jumps from home Lee put Walls Way in front. Three from home and Walls Way still in the lead. Final fence and Walls Way jumped it well putting them strongly in the lead. The rest of the pack dragging further and further back. Walls Way and Lee Edwards crossed the line two full lengths ahead of their nearest rival. To watch the race please click here. Sporting Life said. " tracked leaders, headway to lead 11th, ridden approaching last, stayed on flat opened 12/1 touched 16/1 "
Bangor-on-Dee 14:45. Novices' Handicap Chase. £4000 added, 4yo plus, 2m 4f 110y, Class 4, £2599 penalty, 6 ran. Going: Good. Walls Way ridden by Lee Edwards. Nothing much happened in the first half of the race. Horses rode steady. A.P parted from his horse, Walls Way continued on. Four Jumps from home Lee put Walls Way in front. Three from home and Walls Way still in the lead. Final fence and Walls Way jumped it well putting them strongly in the lead. The rest of the pack dragging further and further back. Walls Way and Lee Edwards crossed the line two full lengths ahead of their nearest rival. To watch the race please click here. Sporting Life said. " tracked leaders, headway to lead 11th, ridden approaching last, stayed on flat opened 12/1 touched 16/1 "
16:00 Newton Abbot, 2m 1f a Novices' Handicap Hurdle (Class 3) (4YO plus) Winner £4,884 - 7 ran. King Olav ridden by Wayne Hutchinson. Right from the start King Olav was up the front and soon in second place. Not challenging just keeping the pace. Just before the final bend King Olav jumped well and suddenly was in the lead. Challenged right up to the last jump when again they jumped well and the lead increased. Steadily the lead grew and grew and they crossed the line clearly the winners and the best horse in that race. A good win for a nice horse, and rider of course. At The Races said " chased leader, challenged 5th, led before next, joined 2 out, driven between last 2, soon in command" If you would like to watch the race please click here. (please note this requires a free 'At The Races' account. If you do not have one you can sign in using the email address carrots@stables.com and use the password racehorse).
The Hero of the hour, King Olav.
I paid a visit to the stables yesterday and immediately noticed one or two small changes. Nice tubs of flowers outside the office and someone had been hard at work in the 'Green Barn'. Its getting a complete revamp. First stage everything out and a new floor put in. Hence the photo on the left. Next I noticed a new shower type fitting to clean or cool down the horses by the walker.
I then had a long chat to Tony Carroll and it turns out he has a new full time member of office staff at the yard. A new guy called James who is going to be Tony's personal assistant. (PA) James, Tony and I sat in the office and chatted about various things one of the main topics of conversation was this website. Some of you may remember the survey I did some while ago? One of the main suggestions, yes I do listen, was that a good improvement would be more input from Tony himself. Well thanks to Tony'siinitiative Tony says he will put up more regular inputs, via James, regarding the training, the yard, syndicates, sales and anything else they can think of. Gallop Gossip will remain for the present until Tonys/James' pages are up and running. It will obviously take some weeks to bring about but as they say 'watch this space'
3rd August
Quite a lot to report today but first let me tell you about our latest winner.
Quite a lot to report today but first let me tell you about our latest winner.
7th August.
A milestone for the yard last Thursday. Our 50th winner this year! What a result. Tony Carroll is, very understandably, a delighted chap. Rightly so. Most yards struggle to anything like that sort of result. Together with the classy wins in France earlier on this year all in all its one of Tonys best years yet.
So let me tell you about our latest wins, yes I did say wins. Two this week.
First win, our 50th, Thursday August 4 at Brighton in the 16:30. A Handicap £3000 added, 3yo plus, 7f 214y, Class 6, £1941 penalty, 6 ran. Going: Soft, Good to Soft in places. Surface: Turf. Ocean Countess (IRE) 9-6 ridden by M O'connell (3). Well these two did not get off to a good start. Towards the rear at the start. But just passed the three furlong marker they made their move. Overtaking the competition one by one. By the two furlong marker they had the lead taking the stands side they headed for the tape. But no one was able to touch them and they brought home a good win. Well done Ocean Countess and Michael O'Connell. Racing Post said "Dropped out last, effort halfway, switched to bag stands' rails and lead 3f out, ridden and kept on well in her normal game Brighton fashion inside final furlong, comfortably (op 4-1) " At The Races "held up in rear, good headway towards stands rail over 3f out, soon squeezed through, led over 2f out and grabbed stands rail, clear over 1f out, pushed out final furlong and stayed on strongly"
The next win came just a day later. Friday August 5. Lingfield Park 17:10. A Handicap (AW) £2250 added, 3yo plus, 6f, Class 6, £1534 penalty, 8 ran. Going: Standard. Surface: Polytrack. Valmina 9-6 ridden by Luke Morris. Could it be the draw that makes the difference on this track? Last time out Valmina was drawn 10 and came 9th out of 15, this time he was drawn 1. At the jump off Valmina was squeezed out to 6th place as all the other horses headed for her rail side position. At the final turn the horses had spaced out and Luke and Valmina headed for the gap. They seemed to have come from nowhere to second position to chase the leader. Half a furlong to go and Valmina overtook the leader and headed for the line with energy. They crossed winners with the second trailing some distance behind. Well done horse and Jockey. That makes 51 wins for the yard!! Sporting Life said" held up towards rear, headway over 2f out, soon chasing leader, driven to lead inside final furlong, ran on well" To watch the race please click here. (please note this requires a free 'At The Races' account. If you do not have one you can sign in using the email address carrots@stables.com and use the password racehorse).
I went down to the yard again, yes twice in one week. Very busy at the stables. I handed out more carrots and one horse in particular was very friendly, or was it just the carrots he was interested in? I lent back on the stable door the horse put its head over my shoulder and seemed to enjoy my scratching behind its ear as it nibbled a few more treats. With that a member of staff came around the corner looking suitably horrified. That one bites! She cried. Gently I got up. Surely she had the wrong horse? The horse gently nuzzled my neck and gave me a little whinny as I walked to the next stables. What a nice horse. Another member of staff then went up to the stable door, obviously lulled into a false sense of security. Ears back the horse immediately snapped at her. These girls dont get paid enough! Obviously these horses see me as a carrot and polo mint vending machine that must not be damaged. Just wish I had the same effect on women!
8th August.
Yes, another win. This time by that nippy little horse (in stable joke) Cane Cat. Wolverhampton (AW) 08 Aug. In the 5:15 (Class 6) (0-60, 4yo+) (1m1f103y) 1m1½f Standard. Ridden by Russ Kennemore.
If you were watching the race and you saw Cane Cat's position at the 3 furlong marker, on the final bend for home, the bookies no doubt would have given you very long odds indeed against Cane Cat even coming in the first three. She trailed in last position. But out of the bend the horses spread wide and Cane Cat stuck to the outside rail and started to accelerate. Soon it was down to the last furlong Cane Cat and Russ were in second position and still speeding towards the line. In the last few yards they got their nose in front and kept it there and won the race. To quote the Jockey Russ "I asked and she gave". This horse certainly has some spirit. She has had 4 wins and a second out of her last seven starts. At The Races "slowly away, switched to rail and held up in rear, pushed along over 3f out, headway on inner over 1f out, kept on to lead last 75 yards " If you would like to watch the race please click here. (please note this requires a free 'At The Races' account. If you do not have one you can sign in using the email address carrots@stables.com and use the password racehorse). " If you watch the race just look for the horse at the back!
Oh yes, almost forgot. Thats 53 wins now for the stable this year.!!
Yes, another win. This time by that nippy little horse (in stable joke) Cane Cat. Wolverhampton (AW) 08 Aug. In the 5:15 (Class 6) (0-60, 4yo+) (1m1f103y) 1m1½f Standard. Ridden by Russ Kennemore.
If you were watching the race and you saw Cane Cat's position at the 3 furlong marker, on the final bend for home, the bookies no doubt would have given you very long odds indeed against Cane Cat even coming in the first three. She trailed in last position. But out of the bend the horses spread wide and Cane Cat stuck to the outside rail and started to accelerate. Soon it was down to the last furlong Cane Cat and Russ were in second position and still speeding towards the line. In the last few yards they got their nose in front and kept it there and won the race. To quote the Jockey Russ "I asked and she gave". This horse certainly has some spirit. She has had 4 wins and a second out of her last seven starts. At The Races "slowly away, switched to rail and held up in rear, pushed along over 3f out, headway on inner over 1f out, kept on to lead last 75 yards " If you would like to watch the race please click here. (please note this requires a free 'At The Races' account. If you do not have one you can sign in using the email address carrots@stables.com and use the password racehorse). " If you watch the race just look for the horse at the back!
Oh yes, almost forgot. Thats 53 wins now for the stable this year.!!
11th August
Two more wins. But before I tell you abou them I have a request to make. I am putting together a gallery of all the horses Mill House has trained this last year, August to August, and I need your help. If you have a photo of your horse, or anyone elses, at the stables or races could I have a copy please? Also if you have been one of the lucky 54 winners so far this year and you have a photo of you getting your prize I would love one of those too. If you could email a copy to this address editor@awcarroll.co.uk I would be very grateful. I do need any I can get my hands on quickly. Thanks! Now on to the wins.
Wednesday August 10, Wolverhampton 19:20. A Selling Stakes. £2400 added, 3yo plus, 1m 141y, Class 6, £1636 penalty, 8 ran. Going: Standard. Surface: Polytrack. Empress Leizu (IRE) ridden by Andrea Atzeni. Empress Leizu flew out of the gates and straight into the lead. Coming around the final bend and still in the lead Empress Leizu and Andrea were challenged. In to the straight and the pressure was on but still they stayed in the lead, in fact they actually gained ground. No horse actually managed to get anywhere near and they crossed the line first after leading from start to finish. Well done to both horse and rider. Tony did well to pick this jockey as this is her 15th win at Wolverhampton. At the races said "made all, ridden over 1f out, edged left and kept on inside final furlong " To watch the race please click here. (please note this requires a free 'At The Races' account. If you do not have one you can sign in using the email address carrots@stables.com and use the password racehorse).
Our next winner of the day was actually the next race of the day 19:50 Wolverhampton (A.W.) 7f 32y A Handicap (Class 4) (3YO plus) Winner £3,234 - 9 ran. Unlimited ridden by T P Queally. Out of the gate Unlimited lay 6th out of 9 letting the others dictate the pace. One furlong to go and Tom went for it. He gave Unlimited his head and off they went. With the last few yards to go it was a two horse race for the finish and Unlimited held on well to take the prize. No doubt much to the delight of the connections. At the races said " mid-division, headway on inside 2f out, went 2nd 1f out, ridden to lead well inside final furlong, ran on well (hand-timed) " To watch the race please click here. (please note this requires a free 'At The Races' account. If you do not have one you can sign in using the email address carrots@stables.com and use the password racehorse).
Two more wins. But before I tell you abou them I have a request to make. I am putting together a gallery of all the horses Mill House has trained this last year, August to August, and I need your help. If you have a photo of your horse, or anyone elses, at the stables or races could I have a copy please? Also if you have been one of the lucky 54 winners so far this year and you have a photo of you getting your prize I would love one of those too. If you could email a copy to this address editor@awcarroll.co.uk I would be very grateful. I do need any I can get my hands on quickly. Thanks! Now on to the wins.
Wednesday August 10, Wolverhampton 19:20. A Selling Stakes. £2400 added, 3yo plus, 1m 141y, Class 6, £1636 penalty, 8 ran. Going: Standard. Surface: Polytrack. Empress Leizu (IRE) ridden by Andrea Atzeni. Empress Leizu flew out of the gates and straight into the lead. Coming around the final bend and still in the lead Empress Leizu and Andrea were challenged. In to the straight and the pressure was on but still they stayed in the lead, in fact they actually gained ground. No horse actually managed to get anywhere near and they crossed the line first after leading from start to finish. Well done to both horse and rider. Tony did well to pick this jockey as this is her 15th win at Wolverhampton. At the races said "made all, ridden over 1f out, edged left and kept on inside final furlong " To watch the race please click here. (please note this requires a free 'At The Races' account. If you do not have one you can sign in using the email address carrots@stables.com and use the password racehorse).
Our next winner of the day was actually the next race of the day 19:50 Wolverhampton (A.W.) 7f 32y A Handicap (Class 4) (3YO plus) Winner £3,234 - 9 ran. Unlimited ridden by T P Queally. Out of the gate Unlimited lay 6th out of 9 letting the others dictate the pace. One furlong to go and Tom went for it. He gave Unlimited his head and off they went. With the last few yards to go it was a two horse race for the finish and Unlimited held on well to take the prize. No doubt much to the delight of the connections. At the races said " mid-division, headway on inside 2f out, went 2nd 1f out, ridden to lead well inside final furlong, ran on well (hand-timed) " To watch the race please click here. (please note this requires a free 'At The Races' account. If you do not have one you can sign in using the email address carrots@stables.com and use the password racehorse).
12th August.
Update. Regarding my request for help in collecting photographs of horses trained in the yard. Basically I am now just a few horses short of a 'full set'. I am looking for photos of Aggbag, Jake The Snake, Carr Hall, Acropolis, Chicago Alley, Lytham. Then I think I will have the lot. So do you have photos of any of these horses you can send me? Thanks in advance!
Update. Regarding my request for help in collecting photographs of horses trained in the yard. Basically I am now just a few horses short of a 'full set'. I am looking for photos of Aggbag, Jake The Snake, Carr Hall, Acropolis, Chicago Alley, Lytham. Then I think I will have the lot. So do you have photos of any of these horses you can send me? Thanks in advance!
14th August.
Yes, another winner. Saturday August 13. Newmarket 14:45 a Handicap (For Grey Horses Only)
£20000 added, 3yo plus, 6f, Class 4, £12450 penalty, 19 ran. Going: Good. Surface: Turf. Well there seems to be a theme running through recent races. They come from the back and overtake the lot to win. Its much the same with this race. Time Medicean 8-9 ridden by Raul Da Silva (7). I must confess to not being familiar with either horse or rider but I am certainly impressed by both. Time Medicean was blocked out, right at the back. But Raul took a chance and went wide. With nothing in front Raul Da Silva pressed Time Medicean's accelerator and they really moved. One by one they picked off the horses in front then made all for the line. Even with the competition being quite decent they made it look almost easy. One minute at the back the next at the front and winning. Its a race worth watching. One of those "where did he come from?" type races. If you wish to watch the race please click here. If you do watch the race look out for a glimpse of the very last horse, almost going backwards, at the two furlong marker. Then watch it do its magic a few seconds later! Sporting Life said. "keen mid-division, dropped to rear halfway, switched right over 1f out, headway soon after, ran on strongly and edged left to lead near finish opened 11/1 touched 11/1"
Yes, another winner. Saturday August 13. Newmarket 14:45 a Handicap (For Grey Horses Only)
£20000 added, 3yo plus, 6f, Class 4, £12450 penalty, 19 ran. Going: Good. Surface: Turf. Well there seems to be a theme running through recent races. They come from the back and overtake the lot to win. Its much the same with this race. Time Medicean 8-9 ridden by Raul Da Silva (7). I must confess to not being familiar with either horse or rider but I am certainly impressed by both. Time Medicean was blocked out, right at the back. But Raul took a chance and went wide. With nothing in front Raul Da Silva pressed Time Medicean's accelerator and they really moved. One by one they picked off the horses in front then made all for the line. Even with the competition being quite decent they made it look almost easy. One minute at the back the next at the front and winning. Its a race worth watching. One of those "where did he come from?" type races. If you wish to watch the race please click here. If you do watch the race look out for a glimpse of the very last horse, almost going backwards, at the two furlong marker. Then watch it do its magic a few seconds later! Sporting Life said. "keen mid-division, dropped to rear halfway, switched right over 1f out, headway soon after, ran on strongly and edged left to lead near finish opened 11/1 touched 11/1"
17th August.
Before I mention the winning race I would just like to say that I hope you like the new front page. Our way of celebrating 54 wins this year for the stables. The horse pictured is Time Medicean. Winning the all greys race at Newmarket, see below for further details. The photo on the right is the lovely silver winners trophy for the race.
Before I mention the winning race I would just like to say that I hope you like the new front page. Our way of celebrating 54 wins this year for the stables. The horse pictured is Time Medicean. Winning the all greys race at Newmarket, see below for further details. The photo on the right is the lovely silver winners trophy for the race.
Right, on to our latest win. Monday August 15. Yarmouth 18:20 a Claiming Stakes. £2500 added, 3-4yo, 1m 2f 21y, Class 6, £1617 penalty, 5 ran. Going: Good to Firm, Good in places. Surface: Turf. Malice or Mischief ridden by Liam Jones. At odds of 4-9 everyone was convinced that M or M was going to walk this race but you must never count your winnings before you cross the finishing line. M or M did not really dominate the race though until about the two furlong marker. Though challenged he really did not look too threatened. Then he showed his true form. Liam changed gear, Malice or Mischief speeded up and dominated the race. Liam brought Malice or Mischief home for yet another win. If my calculations are correct thats 6 wins for Malice or Mischief since he arrived at the yard. Well done horse and connections, oh and the jockey of course. Sporting Life said. "tracked leader, challenged over 3f out, led and wanted to hang left over 2f out, soon ridden, kept on under pressure final furlong opened 4/7 touched 4/7 £250-£500 " To watch the race please click here.
(please note this requires a free 'At The Races' account. If you do not have one you can sign in using the email address carrots@stables.com and use the password racehorse).
(please note this requires a free 'At The Races' account. If you do not have one you can sign in using the email address carrots@stables.com and use the password racehorse).
23rd August
Well what an enjoyable Weekend. It was the official yard open day for the owners on Sunday and boy did the staff have to work hard on the previous Saturday to get everything ready. I did my best to help by keeping out of the way, one does have to do ones bit. When I arrived on Sunday at the official start time of 11 am there were already a considerable amount of cars parked. I have put up just a few of the many photo's taken that day. A lot more have been promised so when they arrive I will duly put them up for you. In the meantime enjoy these few. If you went I am sure you enjoyed yourself, I did.
Well what an enjoyable Weekend. It was the official yard open day for the owners on Sunday and boy did the staff have to work hard on the previous Saturday to get everything ready. I did my best to help by keeping out of the way, one does have to do ones bit. When I arrived on Sunday at the official start time of 11 am there were already a considerable amount of cars parked. I have put up just a few of the many photo's taken that day. A lot more have been promised so when they arrive I will duly put them up for you. In the meantime enjoy these few. If you went I am sure you enjoyed yourself, I did.
24th August
Another week another winner. 7.10 Wolverhampton: A Selling Stakes£1,636 - (1m 1f 103y)Class 6.
What a very tactical race David Probert ran with Jordaura. They started off at 5/2 Fav and it was not until the last furlong that Jordaura made a move. Indeed before this they were languishing at the rear. They rounded the final bend. Waited for a gap and off they went. David said after the race they went too early. But personally from my view it looked like they timed it perfectly. They did win the race after all. So well done horse and rider. If you would like to watch the race please click here . Look for the next to last horse at the start of the race. (please note this requires a free 'At The Races' account. If you do not have one you can sign in using the email address carrots@stables.com and use the password racehorse)
I hope you like the recent alterations on the front page. Quite pleased with them myself. I would like to thank Mr. Michael Smithson who kindly sent in those pictures I used on there, really capture the race dont they? So thank you Michael. If anyone else has photo's, openday, races etc I would only be too pleased to see them. Just email me at :- editor@awcarroll.co.uk
Another week another winner. 7.10 Wolverhampton: A Selling Stakes£1,636 - (1m 1f 103y)Class 6.
What a very tactical race David Probert ran with Jordaura. They started off at 5/2 Fav and it was not until the last furlong that Jordaura made a move. Indeed before this they were languishing at the rear. They rounded the final bend. Waited for a gap and off they went. David said after the race they went too early. But personally from my view it looked like they timed it perfectly. They did win the race after all. So well done horse and rider. If you would like to watch the race please click here . Look for the next to last horse at the start of the race. (please note this requires a free 'At The Races' account. If you do not have one you can sign in using the email address carrots@stables.com and use the password racehorse)
I hope you like the recent alterations on the front page. Quite pleased with them myself. I would like to thank Mr. Michael Smithson who kindly sent in those pictures I used on there, really capture the race dont they? So thank you Michael. If anyone else has photo's, openday, races etc I would only be too pleased to see them. Just email me at :- editor@awcarroll.co.uk
25th August.
A quick update. Some of you that attended the Owners Open Day last Sunday entered the "Horse To Follow" competition. I have been asked by the organizer to put up a list of entries for that competition. So if you are interested in seeing what everyone else has chosen, or to remind yourself what you picked, now is your chance. To see the list please click here.
A quick update. Some of you that attended the Owners Open Day last Sunday entered the "Horse To Follow" competition. I have been asked by the organizer to put up a list of entries for that competition. So if you are interested in seeing what everyone else has chosen, or to remind yourself what you picked, now is your chance. To see the list please click here.
30th August
One or two updates for you first of all let me tell you about the latest winner. Monday August 29. At Chepstow 14:40. £2500 added, 2yo only, 5f 16y, Class 6, £1704 penalty, 10 ran. Going: Soft, Good to Soft in places. Surface: Turf. First Rebellion ridden by David Probert. What a race. One of those will he do it? Yes-he-will, no-he-wont, sort of races. From start to finish these two contested the lead and pushed hard all the way around. Even with a few yards to go First Rebellion was challenged and had to give all to keep the lead. But he got his nose in front and kept it there and they won by a short head. Sporting Life said "with leader, ridden 2f out, driven to lead inside final furlong, soon strongly pressed, found extra last strides opened 11/2 touched 11/2 " If you would like to watch the race please click here. I visited the stables today and gave First Rebellion his winning carrot and polo mint. The jockey was not around so non for him.
Now no doubt one or two of the more observant readers will have notice a new icon at the top of this page and the 'Office' page. The 'Members' button. If you click it you will be taken to a new addition to the website. The 'Forum'. This is a new area for owners with horses in training at the Mill House yard. I have spent nearly two weeks setting it up and have today handed it over to James. If you scroll down to the bottom of the new page you will find a 'Register' button. Basically after clicking it it will ask you to choose a 'username' and a 'password'. James will then get an email letting him know you wish to join the forum. He authorises your admission and you get an email saying 'welcome.... etc'. From then on you can just log in. Once inside you will find several sections. 'Keeping Track' this will let you know on a far more regular basis what is happening in the yard and how horses are progressing etc. There is also a section for the syndicates and Horses for sale and a place where you can have your say and chat to other Mill House Owners. As I said before this is now James "baby" so I cannot take credit for all this new interesting information coming your way. I myself will be popping in from time to time seeing if there are any suggestions, comments etc regarding the main website. The survey last year indicated that you wanted more up-to-date and more frequent information I hope this new forum will fullfill that need. So please join. James is now also in control of the 'For_Sale' and 'Horses In Training' page. So we can soon expect tempting new sales and syndicate offers.
One or two updates for you first of all let me tell you about the latest winner. Monday August 29. At Chepstow 14:40. £2500 added, 2yo only, 5f 16y, Class 6, £1704 penalty, 10 ran. Going: Soft, Good to Soft in places. Surface: Turf. First Rebellion ridden by David Probert. What a race. One of those will he do it? Yes-he-will, no-he-wont, sort of races. From start to finish these two contested the lead and pushed hard all the way around. Even with a few yards to go First Rebellion was challenged and had to give all to keep the lead. But he got his nose in front and kept it there and they won by a short head. Sporting Life said "with leader, ridden 2f out, driven to lead inside final furlong, soon strongly pressed, found extra last strides opened 11/2 touched 11/2 " If you would like to watch the race please click here. I visited the stables today and gave First Rebellion his winning carrot and polo mint. The jockey was not around so non for him.
Now no doubt one or two of the more observant readers will have notice a new icon at the top of this page and the 'Office' page. The 'Members' button. If you click it you will be taken to a new addition to the website. The 'Forum'. This is a new area for owners with horses in training at the Mill House yard. I have spent nearly two weeks setting it up and have today handed it over to James. If you scroll down to the bottom of the new page you will find a 'Register' button. Basically after clicking it it will ask you to choose a 'username' and a 'password'. James will then get an email letting him know you wish to join the forum. He authorises your admission and you get an email saying 'welcome.... etc'. From then on you can just log in. Once inside you will find several sections. 'Keeping Track' this will let you know on a far more regular basis what is happening in the yard and how horses are progressing etc. There is also a section for the syndicates and Horses for sale and a place where you can have your say and chat to other Mill House Owners. As I said before this is now James "baby" so I cannot take credit for all this new interesting information coming your way. I myself will be popping in from time to time seeing if there are any suggestions, comments etc regarding the main website. The survey last year indicated that you wanted more up-to-date and more frequent information I hope this new forum will fullfill that need. So please join. James is now also in control of the 'For_Sale' and 'Horses In Training' page. So we can soon expect tempting new sales and syndicate offers.
31st August
There are a few things that are turning points in our lives. Riding our first bike, first day at school, your wedding day and lots of others that mark our lives and remember for the rest of it. Yesterday no doubt was one of those for Charlie Carroll, Tonys' son. His first win. Tuesday August 30. Goodwood 17:05. A Gentleman Amateur Riders' Handicap. £4000 added, 4yo plus, 1m 3f, Class 5, £2496 penalty, 8 ran. Going: Good. Surface: Turf. Charlie Carroll (7) riding Boston Blue. At the start of the race Charlie and Boston Blue were hemmed in at the back. But they kept their cool and waited for a gap. An entrance appeared around the three furlong marker and the duo made their way through it. Tempting as it must have been to let Boston Blue have his head Charlie kept his cool. At the final furlong marker he let Boston Blue off the bit and made all for the line. The rest of the pack followed suit. Soon Boston Blue and Charlie Carroll were in the lead. The rest of the runners close on their heels. At this stage of the race you can expect the will to win to take over and elbows start flapping to try and 'fly' the horse over the line. But somehow Charlie Carroll kept his cool. Concentrated. Put his hands up the horses neck and pushed on. Increased his lead significantly. Kept the lead and stormed across the line. If you could bottle the look on his face when he knew he had won you would make yourself a fortune! If you would like to watch the race please click here. The jockey to look for is wearing a Green jacket with yellow cross and yellow cap.
Thank you to all those that have applied to join the new forum. I was very surprised, and delighted, to find that applications had come in within minutes of me putting up last nights posting. Seven so far, and I have not checked the email this morning. But as I said yesterday the Forum James is now the editor of the forum no doubt you will be receiving your welcome emails from him soon. I too am looking forward to the regular updates etc.
Almost forgot! We reached a milestone on the website yesterday. Over 100 hits in one day. As there are 57 horses currently with Mill House at the moment I assume that a lot of 'non owners' are following the website and Tony Carrolls horses too. Happy to have you with us! I must be doing something right! Thank you to all that have supported us.
Those nice people at www.thejockey.co.uk have sent me photo's of First Rebellions win at Chepstow yesterday. I have obviously put them below for you to enjoy.
There are a few things that are turning points in our lives. Riding our first bike, first day at school, your wedding day and lots of others that mark our lives and remember for the rest of it. Yesterday no doubt was one of those for Charlie Carroll, Tonys' son. His first win. Tuesday August 30. Goodwood 17:05. A Gentleman Amateur Riders' Handicap. £4000 added, 4yo plus, 1m 3f, Class 5, £2496 penalty, 8 ran. Going: Good. Surface: Turf. Charlie Carroll (7) riding Boston Blue. At the start of the race Charlie and Boston Blue were hemmed in at the back. But they kept their cool and waited for a gap. An entrance appeared around the three furlong marker and the duo made their way through it. Tempting as it must have been to let Boston Blue have his head Charlie kept his cool. At the final furlong marker he let Boston Blue off the bit and made all for the line. The rest of the pack followed suit. Soon Boston Blue and Charlie Carroll were in the lead. The rest of the runners close on their heels. At this stage of the race you can expect the will to win to take over and elbows start flapping to try and 'fly' the horse over the line. But somehow Charlie Carroll kept his cool. Concentrated. Put his hands up the horses neck and pushed on. Increased his lead significantly. Kept the lead and stormed across the line. If you could bottle the look on his face when he knew he had won you would make yourself a fortune! If you would like to watch the race please click here. The jockey to look for is wearing a Green jacket with yellow cross and yellow cap.
Thank you to all those that have applied to join the new forum. I was very surprised, and delighted, to find that applications had come in within minutes of me putting up last nights posting. Seven so far, and I have not checked the email this morning. But as I said yesterday the Forum James is now the editor of the forum no doubt you will be receiving your welcome emails from him soon. I too am looking forward to the regular updates etc.
Almost forgot! We reached a milestone on the website yesterday. Over 100 hits in one day. As there are 57 horses currently with Mill House at the moment I assume that a lot of 'non owners' are following the website and Tony Carrolls horses too. Happy to have you with us! I must be doing something right! Thank you to all that have supported us.
Those nice people at www.thejockey.co.uk have sent me photo's of First Rebellions win at Chepstow yesterday. I have obviously put them below for you to enjoy.
1st September.
Just a quick update. Mr. Karl MacWilliam has kindly sent me some photo's of Charlie Carrolls win on Boston Blue I thought I would share some of them with you. Enjoy, and thank you Karl!
Just a quick update. Mr. Karl MacWilliam has kindly sent me some photo's of Charlie Carrolls win on Boston Blue I thought I would share some of them with you. Enjoy, and thank you Karl!
4th September.
Saturday September 3 a winner at Wolverhampton in the 19:00. A Handicap £2500 added, 3yo plus, 5f 216y, Class 6, £1704 penalty, 12 ran. Going: Standard. Surface: Polytrack.
We had Valmina ridden by S Drowne, who won the Darley July Cup (Group 1) on Sakhee's Secret back in 2007. I digress. Back to the Wolverhampton win. At three furlongs coming around the bend Valmina was one of the back markers certainly not appearing to challenge anyone. They came around the final turn Valmina against the far side rail. Then you could quite clearly see that Steve had Valmina go and started to push. It looked as though he had released his handbrake. With half a furlong to go Valmina had taken the lead. They kept the lead and crossed the line first. Good ride. If you would like to watch the race please click here. (please note this requires a free 'At The Races' account. If you do not have one you can sign in using the email address carrots@stables.com and use the password racehorse).
Saturday September 3 a winner at Wolverhampton in the 19:00. A Handicap £2500 added, 3yo plus, 5f 216y, Class 6, £1704 penalty, 12 ran. Going: Standard. Surface: Polytrack.
We had Valmina ridden by S Drowne, who won the Darley July Cup (Group 1) on Sakhee's Secret back in 2007. I digress. Back to the Wolverhampton win. At three furlongs coming around the bend Valmina was one of the back markers certainly not appearing to challenge anyone. They came around the final turn Valmina against the far side rail. Then you could quite clearly see that Steve had Valmina go and started to push. It looked as though he had released his handbrake. With half a furlong to go Valmina had taken the lead. They kept the lead and crossed the line first. Good ride. If you would like to watch the race please click here. (please note this requires a free 'At The Races' account. If you do not have one you can sign in using the email address carrots@stables.com and use the password racehorse).
If you watch the race these are the colours to look for.
Good news on the forum. Your memberships have been accepted and It's just had its first news updates. James has re-organised and removed a few things but it is on its way at last. If you came along to the open day and put your name down for the 'Five To Follow' challenge if you log onto the forum you will be able to see your position on the leader board.
If you have any suggestions for the forum, or the website come to that, I am always pleased to have your comments.
If you have any suggestions for the forum, or the website come to that, I am always pleased to have your comments.
6th September.
A man was sitting quietly reading his paper one morning, peacefully enjoying himself, when his wife sneaks up behind him and whacks him on the back of his head with a huge frying pan.
Man: "What was that for?"
Wife: "What was that piece of paper in your pants pocket with the name Mary Louise written on it?"
Man: "Oh honey, remember two weeks ago when I went to the horse races?
Mary Louise was the name of one of the horses I bet on."
The wife looked all satisfied, apologizes, and goes off to do work around the house.
Three days later he is once again sitting in his chair reading and she wallops him again with the frying pan.
Man: "What the hell was that for this time?"
Wife: "Your bl*****y horse just phoned."
A man was sitting quietly reading his paper one morning, peacefully enjoying himself, when his wife sneaks up behind him and whacks him on the back of his head with a huge frying pan.
Man: "What was that for?"
Wife: "What was that piece of paper in your pants pocket with the name Mary Louise written on it?"
Man: "Oh honey, remember two weeks ago when I went to the horse races?
Mary Louise was the name of one of the horses I bet on."
The wife looked all satisfied, apologizes, and goes off to do work around the house.
Three days later he is once again sitting in his chair reading and she wallops him again with the frying pan.
Man: "What the hell was that for this time?"
Wife: "Your bl*****y horse just phoned."
8th September.
Visited the stables yesterday. On arrival I found Mary the assistant trainer bravely putting a green new youngster through its paces on the end of a lunge rein. At first it was bucking and kicking out but gradually and with a lot of patience it worked out that all that was required was for it to trot around in a circle. Soon it appeared to be enjoying it. Lesson learned it was returned to the stable and fed. I continued on my carrot and polo distribution. All horses appear to be happy and fit.
So yesterdays winner. Wednesday September 7. Kempton Park 17:50 a Classified Stakes £2500 added, 3yo plus, 1m 2f, Class 6, £1617 penalty, 13 ran. Going: Standard. Surface: Polytrack. Appyjack ridden by Neil Callan. Out of the gates Appyjack went straight in to the lead. By the time they had reached the winning line for the first time Callan was holding back Appyjack's enthusiasm retreating back towards the middle of the racing pack. Final bend and the pair made their move. Finding a gap and attacking the leaders. Final furlong and Appyjack only had one in front to pass. With half a furlong to go Appyjack nudged in front. With the horse in second place snapping at his heels. Appyjack increased the pace slightly and began to pull away winning by just under a length. Nice one! If you would like to watch this race please click here. These are the colours to look for if you do watch the race.
Visited the stables yesterday. On arrival I found Mary the assistant trainer bravely putting a green new youngster through its paces on the end of a lunge rein. At first it was bucking and kicking out but gradually and with a lot of patience it worked out that all that was required was for it to trot around in a circle. Soon it appeared to be enjoying it. Lesson learned it was returned to the stable and fed. I continued on my carrot and polo distribution. All horses appear to be happy and fit.
So yesterdays winner. Wednesday September 7. Kempton Park 17:50 a Classified Stakes £2500 added, 3yo plus, 1m 2f, Class 6, £1617 penalty, 13 ran. Going: Standard. Surface: Polytrack. Appyjack ridden by Neil Callan. Out of the gates Appyjack went straight in to the lead. By the time they had reached the winning line for the first time Callan was holding back Appyjack's enthusiasm retreating back towards the middle of the racing pack. Final bend and the pair made their move. Finding a gap and attacking the leaders. Final furlong and Appyjack only had one in front to pass. With half a furlong to go Appyjack nudged in front. With the horse in second place snapping at his heels. Appyjack increased the pace slightly and began to pull away winning by just under a length. Nice one! If you would like to watch this race please click here. These are the colours to look for if you do watch the race.
12th September.
Yet another winner to tell you about. Last Saturday September 10 at Bath in the 15:55, a Handicap. £6000 added, 3yo plus, 5f 11y, Class 4, £3881 penalty, 9 ran. Going: Good to Soft. Surface: Turf. Maze ridden by Harry Bently. At the three furlong marker Harry Bently had to take Maze wide to avoid getting blocked in. Coming up to two furlongs Maze started to make a serious challenge. They pass the one marker Maze and Harry started to make all for the line, within a few strides Maze was in front. Now they really started to pull away and increase their lead. The pair won easily by at least a length. Well done Maze and Harry Bently. Sporting Life said "held up, headway on outside halfway, strong run to lead inside final furlong, won going away opened 7/1 touched 7/1" If you would like to watch the race please click here.
If you watch the race these are the colours to look out for. Racing number 3, drawn 8.
Yet another winner to tell you about. Last Saturday September 10 at Bath in the 15:55, a Handicap. £6000 added, 3yo plus, 5f 11y, Class 4, £3881 penalty, 9 ran. Going: Good to Soft. Surface: Turf. Maze ridden by Harry Bently. At the three furlong marker Harry Bently had to take Maze wide to avoid getting blocked in. Coming up to two furlongs Maze started to make a serious challenge. They pass the one marker Maze and Harry started to make all for the line, within a few strides Maze was in front. Now they really started to pull away and increase their lead. The pair won easily by at least a length. Well done Maze and Harry Bently. Sporting Life said "held up, headway on outside halfway, strong run to lead inside final furlong, won going away opened 7/1 touched 7/1" If you would like to watch the race please click here.
If you watch the race these are the colours to look out for. Racing number 3, drawn 8.
Fancy running a marathon? Me neither. Lizelle is one of our staff. She always does that bit extra for the horses she looks after. Be it a salt lick treat for them, paid for out of her own pocket or an extra nice mane plait and polish before the races. She takes pride in her work and we are very proud of her. She always goes that extra mile for us would you go that extra mile for her? No we are not going to ask you to run anywhere! Just read this. Click here.
9th October.
I thought I was redundant and that readers of the website would prefer to get their updates from the new forum, apparently not! Thanks to all those that sent the nice emails, good to be appreciated. What a way to start again too, a winner!
The 20:50 Wolverhampton (A.W.), 6 Oct. 1m 141y a Handicap (Div 2) (Class 6) (3YO plus). Winner £1,363 - 12 ran. Appyjack ridden by Neil Callan. Out of the gate they remained in fifth place pretty much in the centre of the pack. At the two furlong marker they made their move. Looking for a gap. Around the bend and heading for home they took to the outside rail and surged for home. By the straight they were in the lead being chased very closely. With a horse snapping at their heels they dared not slacken for a second. Neil kept pushing the advantage and held on to cross the line winners. Sporting Life "close up, pushed along 4f out, effort over 1f out, ridden edged right and led inside final furlong, ran on opened 7/2 touched 4/1 " If you want to watch the race please click here. (please note this requires a free 'At The Races' account. If you do not have one you can sign in using the email address carrots@stables.com and use the password racehorse). These are the colours to look out for.
I am hoping to get down to the stables next week, first time for a month. Will report back after I have been. Thanks again for all the support.
I thought I was redundant and that readers of the website would prefer to get their updates from the new forum, apparently not! Thanks to all those that sent the nice emails, good to be appreciated. What a way to start again too, a winner!
The 20:50 Wolverhampton (A.W.), 6 Oct. 1m 141y a Handicap (Div 2) (Class 6) (3YO plus). Winner £1,363 - 12 ran. Appyjack ridden by Neil Callan. Out of the gate they remained in fifth place pretty much in the centre of the pack. At the two furlong marker they made their move. Looking for a gap. Around the bend and heading for home they took to the outside rail and surged for home. By the straight they were in the lead being chased very closely. With a horse snapping at their heels they dared not slacken for a second. Neil kept pushing the advantage and held on to cross the line winners. Sporting Life "close up, pushed along 4f out, effort over 1f out, ridden edged right and led inside final furlong, ran on opened 7/2 touched 4/1 " If you want to watch the race please click here. (please note this requires a free 'At The Races' account. If you do not have one you can sign in using the email address carrots@stables.com and use the password racehorse). These are the colours to look out for.
I am hoping to get down to the stables next week, first time for a month. Will report back after I have been. Thanks again for all the support.
1st November.
I actually made it down to the stables. As usual everyone was very busy and it was a very nice day today. Lots of new horses and all looks well.
Anyway the important bit. A winner! The 5 o clock race at Kempton (AW). A Handicap (Class 6) (0-55, 4yo+) 1m4f Standard. Shalambar (IRE) 3/1F ridden by Jim Crowley. Well a horse does not run much better than this. What can I say? It got to the front and stayed there! Coming up to the two furlong marker
Shalambar was a good four lengths in front and the others were trying to catch up. Happy to say none did and Shalambar and Jim Crawley crossed the winning line 2 1/2 lengths in front. Well done horse and rider! To watch the race please click here.
I actually made it down to the stables. As usual everyone was very busy and it was a very nice day today. Lots of new horses and all looks well.
Anyway the important bit. A winner! The 5 o clock race at Kempton (AW). A Handicap (Class 6) (0-55, 4yo+) 1m4f Standard. Shalambar (IRE) 3/1F ridden by Jim Crowley. Well a horse does not run much better than this. What can I say? It got to the front and stayed there! Coming up to the two furlong marker
Shalambar was a good four lengths in front and the others were trying to catch up. Happy to say none did and Shalambar and Jim Crawley crossed the winning line 2 1/2 lengths in front. Well done horse and rider! To watch the race please click here.
2nd December
Got my loved one back at the weekend. Bit frustrating not having anything to play with during the day. I am of course talking about my computer. The mother board died and went to silicon heaven. That is why I have not done any reports over the last month or so. But now we are re-united.
So to celebrate I went down to the stables this morning. Damp and quite cold, then again December mornings tend to be like that. The horses remembered me though! Even got a few whinny's. Quite lovely really. The staff as usual were running around trying to get everything done. So now they are charged up on polo's again can we expect the wins to return? We will see. Watch this space as they say.
Got my loved one back at the weekend. Bit frustrating not having anything to play with during the day. I am of course talking about my computer. The mother board died and went to silicon heaven. That is why I have not done any reports over the last month or so. But now we are re-united.
So to celebrate I went down to the stables this morning. Damp and quite cold, then again December mornings tend to be like that. The horses remembered me though! Even got a few whinny's. Quite lovely really. The staff as usual were running around trying to get everything done. So now they are charged up on polo's again can we expect the wins to return? We will see. Watch this space as they say.
4th December.
Well it looks like, so far anyway, the magic polo's have not quite worked their magic yet. Though we did have a second and a third today with Laughing Jack and Easy Does It. Shall have to make another trip to give them a carrot boost.
The main reason for this posting is because I got an email and comments have been made on the 'Members Page' basically asking why I have not updated the pages in there lately. Well as I pointed out earlier in Gallop Gossip, click here to see the posting, James has taken over the running of that bit of the website. It gets a bit messy two of us trying to edit the same bit of website. He also taken over the 'For Sale' section and the 'Horses In Training' updates. James is at the stables full time as a member of staff and knows what is happening in greater detail than I do. Yes I admit the daily postings have stopped but I have not seen James or Tony to ask why. I am sure there is a good reason. I will ask when I visit the stables next week and let you know whats happening. In the meantime thanks for the feedback. It's good to know our efforts are noticed!
Well it looks like, so far anyway, the magic polo's have not quite worked their magic yet. Though we did have a second and a third today with Laughing Jack and Easy Does It. Shall have to make another trip to give them a carrot boost.
The main reason for this posting is because I got an email and comments have been made on the 'Members Page' basically asking why I have not updated the pages in there lately. Well as I pointed out earlier in Gallop Gossip, click here to see the posting, James has taken over the running of that bit of the website. It gets a bit messy two of us trying to edit the same bit of website. He also taken over the 'For Sale' section and the 'Horses In Training' updates. James is at the stables full time as a member of staff and knows what is happening in greater detail than I do. Yes I admit the daily postings have stopped but I have not seen James or Tony to ask why. I am sure there is a good reason. I will ask when I visit the stables next week and let you know whats happening. In the meantime thanks for the feedback. It's good to know our efforts are noticed!
7th December.
An update for members of the forum. I had a word with Tony and James yesterday regarding the members Forum and to cut a long story short the updates have started again. I also briefly took control again to make some alterations. I restored the forum picture at the top of the page. Increased the font size to make it easier to read without glasses and, the best bit in my view, got rid of those irritating adverts and 'you have a message' banners. Hope you approve of the improvements. Thanks to all those who dropped me a line etc pointing out these faults, we do listen.
On my visit I helped Mary, (actually I just stood there stroking its head), clip a horse. It was one of those not too rare horses that hates the noise and vibration of the electric clippers. To make it worse it was also one that had lashed out in the past at anyone silly enough to just walk behind it. More than one or two walking wounded to prove it. Would you be brave enough to put a pair of vibrating noisey clippers around the rear end of a horse like that? That sounds rather odd now I have said it! Anyway after an hour of clipping the horse now looks very smart. You could never pay me enough to do these jobs. So that's another glimpse into what happens in the background of the stables.
An update for members of the forum. I had a word with Tony and James yesterday regarding the members Forum and to cut a long story short the updates have started again. I also briefly took control again to make some alterations. I restored the forum picture at the top of the page. Increased the font size to make it easier to read without glasses and, the best bit in my view, got rid of those irritating adverts and 'you have a message' banners. Hope you approve of the improvements. Thanks to all those who dropped me a line etc pointing out these faults, we do listen.
On my visit I helped Mary, (actually I just stood there stroking its head), clip a horse. It was one of those not too rare horses that hates the noise and vibration of the electric clippers. To make it worse it was also one that had lashed out in the past at anyone silly enough to just walk behind it. More than one or two walking wounded to prove it. Would you be brave enough to put a pair of vibrating noisey clippers around the rear end of a horse like that? That sounds rather odd now I have said it! Anyway after an hour of clipping the horse now looks very smart. You could never pay me enough to do these jobs. So that's another glimpse into what happens in the background of the stables.
12th December.
Just a brief update. For those of you who have not noticed we have put up our Christmas message to you . Just click on the link in the Office page. Enjoy!
Hope, if its not too wet etc, to be visiting the stables again tomorrow.
Just a brief update. For those of you who have not noticed we have put up our Christmas message to you . Just click on the link in the Office page. Enjoy!
Hope, if its not too wet etc, to be visiting the stables again tomorrow.
14th December.
I went down to the stables yesterday. Boy was it cold. A biteing easterly wind whipped across the open fields. It was so cold that some of the staff put jumpers on and Titch actually rolled down his sleeves. Whilst I was down at the walker barn I heard a lots of clattering and banging and walking around the back I found two, brave but chilled, guys constructing a portable stable that can house two horses. Apparently Tony is trying out this design as it has lots of benefits. If it does not work in the position its in or its needed somewhere else it can be moved. Having said that I don't think I would volunteer to move it myself , not without making an appointment with a back surgeon first! Anyway I continued around the stables giving out kind words of encouragement and the usual polo's. Also occasionally slipping my hand under their horse blanket for a quick hand warm up, better than a hot water bottle any day. It's nice to be in contact with these lovely animals again after such a long time away.
I went down to the stables yesterday. Boy was it cold. A biteing easterly wind whipped across the open fields. It was so cold that some of the staff put jumpers on and Titch actually rolled down his sleeves. Whilst I was down at the walker barn I heard a lots of clattering and banging and walking around the back I found two, brave but chilled, guys constructing a portable stable that can house two horses. Apparently Tony is trying out this design as it has lots of benefits. If it does not work in the position its in or its needed somewhere else it can be moved. Having said that I don't think I would volunteer to move it myself , not without making an appointment with a back surgeon first! Anyway I continued around the stables giving out kind words of encouragement and the usual polo's. Also occasionally slipping my hand under their horse blanket for a quick hand warm up, better than a hot water bottle any day. It's nice to be in contact with these lovely animals again after such a long time away.
A winner today. In the 2:50 Bangor-on-dee. A Conditional Jockeys' Handicap Hurdle (Class 5) (0-100, 3yo+) 2m1f Good To Soft 9 hdles. A good race with stable jockey Lee Edwards riding Share Option. The pair lay around the front grouping for much of the race then approaching the final furlong Lee went for it and just snatched it on the line winning by a fine neck. A good ride Lee and no doubt the connections are delighted. If you want to watch the race please click here.
